INSPIRE.39
The business magazine of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce July - August 2020
Inside p16 •
BUSINESS Recovery
The path to recovery in difficult times Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards Update p12
p24 •
SPOTLIGHT FOCUS
Stevenage businesses adapt to a new normal
CHAMBER EVENTS
Forthcoming business events for 2020
p35 • ECONOMY
Navigating through uncertainty
p4
p38 •
THANK YOU FROM HERTFORDSHIRE
Chamber members show their appreciation
For a greener future, think Hertfordshire IQ. With a focus on sustainable travel solutions, renewable energy and tax breaks for green businesses, Hertfordshire IQ is the perfect place for your business to thrive. Find out more and get in touch at herts-iq.co.uk
WELCOME & CONTENTS
The rebuild starts now!
The economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic was laid bare recently by the latest UK GDP statistics. Briege Leahy Chief Executive Officer Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce They certainly made for grim reading; GDP fell by a staggering 20.4% in April, the largest fall since monthly records began in 1997.
However, it’s good news that shops are reopening, businesses have started trading again and people are gradually getting back to work.
In one sense, this came as no surprise – much of the country was in total lockdown during April – but the news did highlight the need for businesses to bounce back as quickly as possible. Any prospect of a sharp, “v-shaped” recovery remains unlikely, with many sectors continuing to operate at reduced capacity.
In Hertfordshire, we are well placed to build a stronger recovery than some other areas of the UK. To do so, we must build on our core strengths in IT, professional services, construction, advanced manufacturing, engineering and life sciences. These sectors underpinned our economy before lockdown and will drive growth in the future.
Contents
Tourism
36-37
Quotes from Members
38-39
Business Recovery
4-8
Inspirational Leader
10
Inspiring Herts Awards
12
Patron Focus
13
Membership Benefits
Agility and resilience will be vital in the recovery phase, as company owner-managers take steps to protect the wellbeing of their businesses and their diligent, skilled employees. Support is readily available, too, through the Local Enterprise Partnership, the Hertfordshire Growth Hub and, of course, the Hertfordshire Chamber.
These organisations exist to help businesses build connections, unlock their potential, create jobs and accelerate growth. Growth might seem a long way off in light of the recent gloomy economic data – but at least Hertfordshire businesses have taken their first steps to rebuild for the future. We will do all we can to help them on this journey. Briege Leahy Chief Executive Officer Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce
41
4
Update on Furlough Scheme 42 Building Connections
47
Spotlight Focus
16-19
New Members
Chamber Events
24-27
Members News
50 51
18
48-49
Personal Recovery
28
Finance
Inspirational Leader
29
Members News
52-53
Members News
30
Herts Global
54-55
Letter from HM The Queen
32
Health & Wellbeing
56
Queens Awards
33
Skills & Development
61
Economy
35
Last Word
62
Editorial and General Enquiries Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce MacLaurin Building, 4 Bishops Square, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL10 9NE Tel: 01707 502180 Email: enquiries@hertschamber.com Web: www.hertschamber.com
Our region is a good mix of large employers and ambitious small businesses that are sufficiently agile to adapt to these extraordinary circumstances. These pages are full of examples of companies which have done just that.
Publisher Ian Fletcher Benham Publishing Limited Aintree Building, Aintree Way, Aintree Business Park, Liverpool L9 5AQ Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: admin@benhampublishing.com Web: www.benhampublishing.com
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54 Published July 2020 © Benham Publishing and Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce Advertising and Features Karen Hall Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: karen@benhampublishing.com
Disclaimer Inspire is published for Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce and is distributed without charge to Chamber members. All correspondence should be addressed to Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce. Views expressed in Inspire are not necessarily those of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission. ©2020 Please note that submitting an article does not guarantee publication. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in this journal, Benham Publishing and its agents can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributions in advertising or editorial content. Benham Publishing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in web or email links supplied to us.
Production Manager Mark Etherington Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: mark@benhampublishing.com
Media No. 1744
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BUSINESS RECOVERY
The next few months promise to be anything but business as usual. Strict social distancing rules are still in force and, with scientists confirming that COVID-19 is still very much in circulation, many consumers are concerned about returning to shops and offices. The longterm economic impact of the pandemic is, at this stage, difficult to quantify and there are widespread fears that the road to recovery will be a long, arduous one. However, recent easing of lockdown restrictions in the UK mean that the first, tentative steps forward on this journey can begin. Locally, in Hertfordshire, preparations are underway to ensure that work environments are as safe as possible for staff and customers.
The road to recovery As we approach the halfway point of what already seems like a long year, the world is moving cautiously from lockdown to recovery mode. Many businesses have begun trading again after a prolonged period of inactivity, staff are getting back to work and the government has set out plans to gradually reduce its financial support for workers and companies. 4
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Housebuilder CALA Homes is currently undertaking a phased reopening of its construction sites and has put in place robust health and safety processes and procedures, and strict social distancing measures, to protect staff, customers and local communities. Duncan Jackson, Managing Director for CALA Homes North Home Counties, says: “We have put in place important new measures to keep our customers and teams safe. We are asking visitors to pre-book an appointment to allow our sales consultants enough time between visitors to ensure social distancing can be maintained. “We have increased the frequency of cleaning in our sales suites and show homes, including a clean after each appointment, and hand sanitiser stations have been installed in all of our sales suites. Disposable masks and gloves can also be provided on request.
BUSINESS RECOVERY
New signage is now in place to help customers navigate our sales suites and show homes safely and keep a safe twometre distance. Protective screens have also been installed on consultation desks for the safety of staff and visitors. For those who would prefer to continue their house-buying journey from the comfort of their own home, our sales teams are still available for one-to-one telephone or video consultations, and the virtual tours will remain on our website. We can also still take reservations remotely and continue to offer a virtual part-exchange service, helping those who are shielding or who would like to remain at home where possible.”
Comice Meadows, CALA Another business that has been adapting
The company has kept in regular touch with all staff via weekly video catch-ups and regular phone calls to keep morale and spirits high. In addition, those staff with children have adapted to working flexibly around homework and Zoom calls with their classmates – and will continue to do so until their school year is called back.
quickly during the coronavirus crisis is
Duncan says: “I think the coronavirus lockdown has proven to a lot of businesses about how beneficial it can be to adapt to home working. As such, we will continue to adopt flexible working practices, especially in the coming months where schools will likely still be partially open.
While farming is still very much at the
“Following the success of our virtual tours, show home walk-arounds and webinars, we will continue to offer these on our website for the foreseeable future as they provide a great initial tool for not only visualising the look of a new home, but also for understanding elements of the buying process.”
AT Bone & Sons, a family business started by Alan and Audrey Bone in 1957 as a Hertfordshire farming business. Over the last 60 years it has evolved and created a more diverse offering – a strategy that has proven its worth during these testing times.
forefront of the Bone family agenda, the business now also incorporates civil engineering, sports turf contracting, logistics and commercial lettings. Director Becky Bone says: “The lockdown announced in March meant that we had to take a deep breath and analyse the options available. There were many questions and unknowns to consider, and decisions to be made. Following a period of unrest, the company began to change and look for new business avenues that presented themselves.
One of the unfortunate outcomes of the COVID pandemic has been an increased demand for cemetery space, and the skills needed for such a project lends perfectly to the strengths the company has in construction, groundworks, drainage, and soft and hard landscaping. We recently completed and handed over a new 3,500-plot cemetery for Dacorum Council and a slightly smaller 1,800-plot for Buntingford. Alongside this, a further two projects are due to start imminently. At the other end of the spectrum, we’ve also been involved in the groundworks and preparation for further glass to be erected for several Lee Valley Salad Growers to keep up with increasing demand for Britishgrown produce from the supermarkets. The essential nature of these jobs meant that working practices had to be adapted early to ensure the team could carry on operating in a safe environment. Despite the difficulty in obtaining supplies Continued >>>
“We have increased the frequency of cleaning in our sales suites and show homes, including a clean after each appointment, and hand sanitiser stations have been installed in all of our sales suites. Disposable masks and gloves can also be provided on request.” Duncan Jackson, CALA
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BUSINESS RECOVERY
at times, we delivered by remaining resourceful and diligent. As things begin to get back to normal, we’re remaining positive whilst quickly preparing for the fast-approaching harvest which brings its own challenges. If being in the farming industry teaches you anything, it’s to remain an optimist even during incredibly difficult times.” This approach is also helping Davroc as it, too, makes positive changes to adapt to an uncertain trading environment. Although the luxury bathroom distributor had to
furlough 79 of its 104-strong workforce and
We’ve also taken steps to create an
temporarily close its London-based retail
environment that’s as safe as possible as
showroom, a skeleton crew of staff found
things get back to normal again. We have
innovative ways to keep the company in
hands-free sanitisers on site, we carry out
the forefront of customers’ minds.
risk assessments on staff and our delivery
Emma Marsden, Group Financial Controller at Davroc, says: “Some of our staff were able to work from home and they’ve been very proactive, rather than just waiting for sales to appear. They’ve used Microsoft Teams to connect with each other and generate ideas to promote the business and keep in touch with customers.
“The lockdown announced in March meant that we had to take a deep breath and analyse the options available. There were many questions and unknowns to consider, and decisions to be made. Following a period of unrest, the company began to change and look for new business avenues that presented themselves.” 6
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vans are equipped with safety equipment.
BUSINESS RECOVERY
“Some of our staff were able to work from home and they’ve been very proactive, rather than just waiting for sales to appear. They’ve used Microsoft Teams to connect with each other and generate ideas to promote the business and keep in touch with customers.” We’re also a well-known brand, having been around for 40 years, so customers recognise us as a family-run business with strong family values.” Having a reputable, established brand will give Davroc a competitive advantage as the market recovers from COVID-19. The company is famed for working with many well-known and trusted brands, including several exclusive, luxury manufacturers with a focus on specifically sourced materials, handmade craftsmanship and practical designs. Davroc’s reputation for supplying quality, bespoke products has helped it land contracts on several prestigious projects in recent years, including The Singapore Hotel, Soho House,
Healthcare workers wear PPE made by Life3D Airport Link Bangkok, The Chiltern Firehouse & Ham Yard – a useful reminder of its pedigree as the wheels of UK commerce start turning again. The cameras have also started rolling at Elstree Film Studios in Borehamwood. The location for recent productions of Strictly Come Dancing, The Voice and other major TV shows. Elstree has undertaken its first production since lockdown, helping to revive a creative industries powerhouse that’s usually worth more than £100 billion a year to the UK economy. Strict protective measures have been put in place for those returning to work on the site, including the wearing of masks or face coverings, social distancing and temperature checks. Roger Morris, Managing Director of Elstree Studios, says: “It’s important to get our industry back to work, but safely. Many employed in the film and television industry are freelancers who’ve been hit particularly badly; many have been unable to access the government’s financial support schemes.” On its mixed-use site Elstree has 43 tenants including product placement specialists, animators, scriptwriters, casting directors and production companies.
3D printers used by the team at Life3D With such a diverse creative offering, it’s no surprise that some of these professionals have been turning their talents to providing innovative solutions to problems created by the coronavirus pandemic. Lifecast, a supplier of prosthetics and props to the film and television industry, has provided manikins (via its Lifecast Body Simulation division) that are being used to train medical staff on the use of ventilators during the COVID-19 outbreak. Another branch of the company, Life3D, is using 3D printing equipment to produce essential PPE for key workers. Continued >>>
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BUSINESS RECOVERY
Elstree Studios
Social Distancing at Elstree Studios
As well as being home to many skilled professionals, Elstree also has workshops, green screen facilities, extensive production offices, dressing rooms, wardrobe and make-up rooms and a range of film and TV studios, with the George Lucas stages being one of the tallest in Europe with a height of 50ft. In addition, Sky has announced its intention to invest in a new 32-acre, state-of-the-art TV and film studio at Elstree – a move that’s expected to create more than 2,000 new jobs and generate £3bn of production investment in the UK’s creative sector. But despite this positive news, the industry – and Elstree – is having to adapt to and tackle major long-term challenges. Roger says: “There’s a big trend towards media streaming; hence, the popularity of Netflix and other streaming channels. This is forcing some production companies to shun theatrical releases altogether. The fact that so many people now consume short video clips on You Tube and Twitter will probably lead to a rise in the number of short-form productions made for viewing on
smart phones. These significant trends are forcing all of us in the industry to adapt.” Aerospace specialist Airbus is also adapting to a “new normal”. The company has upgraded its systems to facilitate more video-conferencing and home-working and to reduce time spent travelling to meetings. Malcolm Evely, Airbus Defence and Space Stevenage Site Director, said: “It’s clear that COVID-19 has changed the world. For us in Airbus Space in Stevenage, we tried to be a little ahead of things and had already introduced split shifts of spacecraft manufacturing ahead of the official lockdown to minimise any possible contamination. We also followed government guidelines to ensure working from home was implemented quickly and efficiently, and to protect our key manufacturing people to ensure we could continue to meet milestones. As you can imagine, launch dates for spacecraft are often pretty inflexible so we need to keep on schedules. Today we have prepared our site to be fully
compliant with the government’s COVIDsecure guidelines. We’re making sure that everyone is briefed so they’re aware of the new ways of working. In short, we’ll continue to adhere to all guidelines and make sure everyone across the business is working efficiently and effectively. Malcolm is grateful for Airbus’ geographical location in Stevenage, a town which he describes as “a centre for space in the UK”. He says: “Despite the new world where the majority of meetings will continue to be virtual, there’ll still be the need for physical inspection of hardware – our satellites or latest Mars rover programmes, for example – so it’s important that people can get to us easily. The rail connection remains important.” For more information visit https://www.atbone.co.uk/, https://www.cala.co.uk/, https://www.elstreestudios.co.uk/, https://www.davroc.co.uk/ and https://www.airbus.com/
“Sky has announced its intention to invest in a new 32-acre, state-of-the-art TV and film studio at Elstree – a move that’s expected to create more than 2,000 new jobs and generate £3bn of production investment in the UK’s creative sector. But despite this positive news, the industry – and Elstree – is having to adapt to and tackle major long-term challenges.” Roger Morris, Elstree
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HERTFORDSHIRE OPPORTUNITIES PORTAL
HOP provides virtual careers education lifeline during lockdown Due to COVID-19, schools across the UK have had to change the way they operate but that does not mean shutting the door on vital careers education. Research from the Education and Employers Taskforce shows that a young person who has four or more meaningful encounters with an employer is 86% less likely to be unemployed or not in education or training and can earn up to 22% more during their career. Well-planned employer encounters can help address the imbalance in the under-representation of women and minority groups in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) careers. Normally employer encounters would be structured within the school curriculum, but the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions have, for the vast majority of pupils, shifted learning online. Social background has a profound effect on progression in learning and work and this divide has been fuelled further during
lockdown, with working class pupils disproportionally adversely affected. However it is precisely this group of children that will gain most from employer encounters, broadening horizons and appetite for future careers success. King’s College London’s Aspires project found that students with low social capital stand to benefit most from improved careers education and links between education and employers. Here in Hertfordshire, students have been thrown a virtual careers education lifeline during lockdown, thanks to a series of webinars featuring interviews with local employers provided by Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and Hertfordshire Opportunities Portal (HOP). The webinars are closely aligned to growth sectors identified in Hertfordshire LEP’s Strategic Economic Plan, ensuring that
young people find out about career opportunities close to home. These include life sciences, advanced manufacturing, construction and film and TV. Guest speakers have included a graduate mechanical engineer from multi-national engineering firm AECOM, a business degree apprentice from world-leading missile systems company MBDA, an NHS junior doctor, and two scientists from multi-national pharma company GSK and cell and gene therapy SME Autolus. The webinars aim to inform students of the realities, rewards and challenges of the featured sectors and professions. Students are able to attend live and interact directly with employers through asking questions. Specific careers have also been in the virtual spotlight. Simon Shepard, CEO of Optima-life
and member of the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, spoke about his experience as a chartered physiotherapist and business owner. He said: “One of Optima-life’s goals is to build bridges between health, education and community and the session was an ideal opportunity to do this. It was great fun and I was blown away by the level of questioning - the students were fantastic.” All webinars can be found on HOP’s website and YouTube channel, and provide a permanent careers resource that will continue to reach and inspire young people after the live sessions are finished. If you would like to inspire the next generation of talent, contact: hopinto@hertfordshirelep.co.uk Find out more about how we are supporting businesses, residents and employers at www.hopinto.co.uk
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INSPIRATIONAL LEADER
“I didn’t come out of education knowing what I wanted to do as a career,” she recalls. “In the early part of my career I quickly discovered that I had a natural skill for identifying risk and knowing how to reduce or eliminate it.” This insight has helped numerous company ownerdirectors, trustees, senior management teams and health and safety (H&S) professionals to tackle challenging organisational problems over the last three decades. It has also underpinned the success of Broxbourne-based Health and Safety Assurance Services, the business Jacqui launched 21 years ago – the same year her daughter was born. In some ways the name of the company, a Hertfordshire Chamber platinum member, is slightly misleading; Jacqui does far, far more than simply help companies improve their health and safety performance. She works as a trusted advisor to all manner of clients – from innovative blue-chip companies to well-known charities – offering practical guidance on riskbased and health and safety projects, and helping them find practical solutions that can drive operational efficiency and productivity. She also provides competent advisor health and safety services including legal updates, independent external audits, targeted metrics to track business performance, and
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Helping businesses to improve performance A career in the health, safety and risk management industry may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but delivering pragmatic solutions to clients is a passion for Jacqui Brown. coaching and mentoring that helps staff and management develop their leadership skills while understanding their H&S performance as they would their finances. Understanding and managing organisational change is also a key area of her work. All of this is vitally important for organisations that want to remain viable, successful and ahead of the game. The evidence of this
lies in the feedback Jacqui gets from her satisfied clients. “I am told that I help company directors sleep at night,” she says. “Where a failing exists in your health and safety it will become apparent that it is a weakness across your whole business. Getting the right advice and support is vital for any business. What steps can you take to create and maintain
“How can we learn from working practices adopted during the coronavirus? Flexible working and online consultations with specialists will become normal practice.”
Jacqui Brown, founder of Health and Safety Assurance Services
a positive workplace culture? How can you deliver continuous improvement?” Questioning long-held assumptions will be vital as businesses attempt to reshape, rebuild and recover from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. “A lot of companies have discovered they’re no less efficient if staff work from home and run meetings remotely,” Jacqui says. “How can we learn from working practices adopted during the coronavirus? Employees being flexible with their work life balance, homeworking far more and online consultations with specialists such as Jacqui, are likely to become much more common.” Adapting to unexpected events is just one trait of an inspirational leader. Another is the ability to change perceptions. On that score, Jacqui has been remarkably successful, helping others to understand the true human, operational and financial value of risk analysis. “My role isn’t seen as sexy but it’s so important,” she says. “It’s not just a tick-box exercise; truly understanding risk is integral to staff morale, workplace productivity and business success. More companies are beginning to understand this now with many wanting someone of my skill set advising Boards.”
ENVIRONMENT TOP TIPS
particularly where the work is done in front of a computer screen and on the telephone. With homeworking hurriedly implemented in most cases and set to continue in many businesses, focus on health and safety implications is needed going forward. Whilst homeworking should not present special dangers, workstation assessment is prudent nonetheless.
A Cautious Return to Work…… As the lockdown is gradually lifted, some knotty employment law questions are posed by Richard Gvero as we embark upon the journey to normal working.
Q
What if an employee wants to continue homeworking but you want them in the workplace?
Normally, you could refuse homeworking for business reasons. But given the current pandemic, the primary question is whether working from home is possible and not whether it is as productive or effective. Generally, it will be difficult to justify insisting on a return,
A
Q
How do employers need to approach health and safety for the return to work?
Employers have a duty to take all reasonable steps to provide employees with a safe place to work. The Coronavirus crisis is unique in that it has an impact on the safety of every workplace in the country and all employers will need to develop specific responses to it. In the first instance, as required by Government guidance, this means carrying out a risk assessment designed to identify the risks of the transmission of Covid-19 and identify the steps that can be taken to reduce that risk.
the appropriate health and safety representatives or the employees directly over any new safety measures that are to be introduced. Central to these will be handwashing and hygiene procedures and, of course, social distancing will remain a key requirement. If distancing does not work, there will need to be barriers or screens to separate people, staggering arrival and departure times and personal protective equipment.
Q
A
Employees must be fully informed of the results of this risk assessment and the employer must consult with
If an employee refuses to return because they are frightened about the health consequences, does this amount to misconduct?
This is of course a very fact sensitive question but the respective reasonableness of the employer’s and employee’s positions would involve assessing the safety of the workplace and the employee’s safety concerns and balancing conflicting interests.
A
A flexible approach on the part of the employer is advisable and the proper consideration of whether the work can be done from home or whether there are any extra safety measures that can be taken.
Q
What are the risks regarding equality and discrimination?
Equality and discrimination issues also arise because the risks of Covid-19 do not fall equally. For example, different age groups, pregnant employees and those with various underlying conditions are more at risk from the disease.
A
This means that a requirement to return to work especially when full social distancing is not practicable could amount to indirect discrimination, disability discrimination or trigger the duty to make reasonable adjustments. And there is also the practical difficulty employees may face in being asked to return to work when their children are still not back at school. So, the best way to navigate these issues is to be flexible about homeworking, scrupulous in creating a Covid-secure workplace and to listen to reasonable individual concerns. Easier said than done! If you need employment advice for your business, contact Richard Gvero, Head of Employment and Commercial.
Please note the contents of this article are given for information only and must not be relied upon. Legal advice should always be sought in relation to specific circumstances.
www.longmores.law
01992 300333 enquiries@longmores.law 24 Castle Street Hertford SG14 1HP
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INSPIRING HERTFORDSHIRE AWARDS
Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards Update The Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards were launched in 2012 to focus on and celebrate the expertise, achievements and outstanding contribution that businesses and individuals continually make to the growth of our County. The response has been phenomenal and, now into our ninth year; the Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards 2020 promise to be BIGGER and BETTER than ever! These Awards enable Hertfordshire businesses to showcase their performance and achievements to clients, customers, suppliers, stakeholders and to all of the Hertfordshire business community. We are delighted to have joint Headline Sponsor’s for this years’ awards: Hillier Hopkins and SA Law!
We had another record-breaking number of entries this year, including some really strong applications making the judging a tough job! We would like to wish our whole-hearted congratulations to each finalist, and thank every entrant for their effort in filling out the form and applying. The full list of finalists can be seen on our website, and in the previous edition of Inspire. We would like to thank all of our sponsors and external judges for taking their time to carefully score each application. This year we also had a new category, the Year of Culture Award – in alignment with the Hertfordshire Year of Culture 2020 (HYOC2020) vision; a year to showcase Hertfordshire as a county of creative and cultural opportunity.
Tickets are now on sale through our website (www.hertschamber.com) and we would advise all finalists to pay for their reserved places as soon as possible to avoid disappointment! All reserved places will become available for general sale on 1st August 2020. At the time of going to press, we are planning to go ahead with the gala dinner in October, however we are closely watching the situation with COVID 19 and will inform of any changes in the coming weeks. We understand that there is much uncertainty, but one thing is for sure, and that is that we will most definitely celebrate your successes and make the Inspiring Herts Awards 2020 a night to remember!
To find out more about these prestigious awards please visit www.hertschamber.com/the-inspiring-hertfordshire-awards or email awards@hertschamber.com
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PATRON FOCUS
Serving the local community Clare Hawkins, CEO of HCT
Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust (HCT) is the principal provider of community-based healthcare services to the 1.2 million population of Hertfordshire.
With around 2,000 staff and a budget of more than £100 million, the organisation is an integral part of the local community, delivering 48 Care Quality Commissionregistered services to people in their homes, in local clinics, in schools and in community hospitals across the county. In addition, HCT runs the minor injuries unit (MIU) at Herts and Essex Hospital and provides prison health services at HMP The Mount. As HCT approaches its tenth anniversary in November, the world is experiencing tumultuous change due to the impact of COVID-19. The organisation, however, has been able to adapt its provision to ensure its services are deployed in the most effective way possible. Sam Tappenden, director of strategy at HCT, says: “We’ve redeployed staff from some areas of the organisation into our enhanced services so we can help to keep people out of hospital and ensure people are discharged as quickly and safely as possible back home. This is particularly important at the current time,
with hospitals wanting to free up extra resources to treat COVID-19 patients.
sector, so we’re well positioned to help businesses make new connections.
We’re also bringing more services online. We’ve implemented virtual ward rounds so doctors can connect with care homes. We’ve also introduced video conferencing services and created a virtual waiting room where patients can go to get advice on how to treat minor wounds. Around 80% of our staff work in a mobile way using the latest technology, which helps us to remain agile, adaptable and better able to serve the needs of our local community. We’ve introduced virtual consultations in over 35 services, and have now held over 5,000 with patients.”
We’d like to get in touch with volunteers who might be willing to support us, or with companies that could support our fantastic staff with their mental wellbeing.”
Recently HCT signed up to become a patron of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce with the aim of working more closely with the business community. Sam says: “We want to connect with local companies and see what we can do to help each other. As part of our service delivery we have partnerships with a wide range of organisations, including businesses, charities and the statutory
As the world prepares to move into a post-COVID landscape, HCT is determined to maintain the adaptability, agility and transparency that has enabled it to build such as strong reputation over the last decade. “We’re a very forward-thinking, family-oriented and successful organisation that punches above its weight,” says Sam. “Community health services are at the forefront of NHS care and support and our mission is to maintain and improve the health and wellbeing of the people of Hertfordshire. We want to help people maintain their independence for as long as possible and make sure they get the right care in the right place at the right time.” If you want to know more please email samuel.tappenden@nhs.net www.hct.nhs.uk
‘As the world prepares to move into a post-COVID landscape, HCT is determined to maintain the adaptability, agility and transparency that has enabled it to build such as strong reputation over the last decade.’ INSPIRE
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COVID-19 COVID-19 -- CONSIDERATIONS CONSIDERATIONS FOR FOR BUSINESS BUSINESS INSURANCE INSURANCE POLICYHOLDERS POLICYHOLDERS COVID-19 COVID-19 has has created created aa new new risk risk environment environment for for business business clients. clients. In In this this article, article, we we highlight highlight aa number number of pertinent issues that relate to particular areas of policy cover. of pertinent issues that relate to particular areas of policy cover. To To ensure ensure you you are are protected, protected, please please read read the the information information below. below. Should Should you you become become aware aware of of any any potential risk exposure to your business please don’t hesitate to contact us. potential risk exposure to your business please don’t hesitate to contact us.
CONTRACT CONTRACT WORKS WORKS INSURANCE INSURANCE -- POLICY POLICY LIMITATIONS LIMITATIONS
UNOCCUPANCY UNOCCUPANCY CONDITION CONDITION
Two main issues must be addressed regarding Contract Works insurance. Two main issues must be addressed regarding Contract Works insurance. Cessation of Work Clause restricts cover to a specified period Cessation of Work Clause restricts cover to a specified period following work being halted. There is no standard time limit and each following work being halted. There is no standard time limit and each policy wording should be reviewed individually. policy wording should be reviewed individually. Contract Works Policy extends to include cover for completed Contract Works Policy extends to include cover for completed properties. There are varying time limits applicable across the market. properties. There are varying time limits applicable across the market. As sales of completed properties may be delayed, time limits need to be As sales of completed properties may be delayed, time limits need to be reviewed as they might be coming to an end. reviewed as they might be coming to an end.
Where you occupy premises and/or have a storage site, it is likely that your Where you occupy premises and/or have a storage site, it is likely that your cover is subject to compliance with the Unoccupancy Condition. This cover is subject to compliance with the Unoccupancy Condition. This condition requires you advise your insurer of any premises that has become condition requires you advise your insurer of any premises that has become unoccupied. unoccupied. Most insurers define unoccupied premises as one that has not been occupied Most insurers define unoccupied premises as one that has not been occupied or used for 30 days. If a premise becomes unoccupied you may be required to or used for 30 days. If a premise becomes unoccupied you may be required to take certain action regarding the management of the risks associated with this. take certain action regarding the management of the risks associated with this.
DIVERSIFICATION DIVERSIFICATION OF OF BUSINESS BUSINESS OPERATIONS OPERATIONS
MOTOR MOTOR TRADE TRADE RISKS RISKS -- UNACCOMPANIED UNACCOMPANIED DRIVERS DRIVERS
In the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, many business clients have started In the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, many business clients have started to feel the strain. Some have found ways to adapt or alter the services they to feel the strain. Some have found ways to adapt or alter the services they provide whilst this period of isolation and social distancing continues. For provide whilst this period of isolation and social distancing continues. For example, a brewery adapting and utilising their fleet for delivery services. example, a brewery adapting and utilising their fleet for delivery services. If you have been forced to adjust your business’s model, it is important that If you have been forced to adjust your business’s model, it is important that insurers are notified in order that you and your employees remain appropriately insurers are notified in order that you and your employees remain appropriately protected. protected.
As motor traders and car dealerships plan a gradual return following the As motor traders and car dealerships plan a gradual return following the lockdown, it is anticipated they will be required to operate the 2-metre social lockdown, it is anticipated they will be required to operate the 2-metre social distancing between customers and staff. distancing between customers and staff. Whilst these restrictions can be implemented in showrooms and workshops, Whilst these restrictions can be implemented in showrooms and workshops, they can’t be applied on test drives. Therefore, it is important that your they can’t be applied on test drives. Therefore, it is important that your insurance policy has an Unaccompanied Demonstration Extension as insurance policy has an Unaccompanied Demonstration Extension as insurers may not pay any claims without this. insurers may not pay any claims without this.
LEARN LEARN MORE MORE ABOUT ABOUT TYSERS TYSERS During the COVID-19 pandemic, the operating environment for UK businesses constantly evolves, and navigating the During the COVID-19 pandemic, the operating environment for UK businesses constantly evolves, and navigating the emerging risks can prove challenging. At Tysers our consultants work closely with clients and insurers to: emerging risks can prove challenging. At Tysers our consultants work closely with clients and insurers to: Prevent unnecessary premium increases at renewal Prevent unnecessary premium increases at renewal Try to stop new coronavirus exclusions from being added to your policies that may prevent you from making Try to stop new coronavirus exclusions from being added to your policies that may prevent you from making a future claim a future claim Help you decide whether any of your pandemic related losses are covered Help you decide whether any of your pandemic related losses are covered Advise you on whether notifications need to be made on any of your insurances whilst you have cover Advise you on whether notifications need to be made on any of your insurances whilst you have cover Check if you are in breach of operational conditions in your policies as a result of business changes Check if you are in breach of operational conditions in your policies as a result of business changes If you need help or advice please give us a call. If you need help or advice please give us a call.
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AREA FOCUS - STEVENAGE
“Since mid-March we have delivered more than 6,500 free sandwiches to local residents, overseen the logistics of more than 50 food bank collections and deliveries, collected over 250 prescriptions and provided more than 24 hours of telephone-based advice and support.” Club captain Scott Cuthbert and first team fitness coach Jon Ashton. Photo credit Jim Steele Photography
Stevenage firms adapt to a new normal The coronavirus has had a big impact on many businesses, none more so than football clubs. Stevenage FC had already had a difficult season before the pandemic broke – just three wins out of 36 games in league two. The EFL’s decision to curtail league two football for the season has left the club facing the prospect of non-league football next year.
collected over 250 prescriptions and provided more than 24 hours of telephonebased advice and support. Over the years we have expected members of the local community to support us week in week out; COVID-19 has provided us with an opportunity to support them.”
players receiving coaching on a weekly basis. Furlough has provided a lifeline to our business in recent months; however, as we look into the new season we will need to think outside the box and become more digitally focused if we are to thrive in the future landscape.”
However, Stevenage FC is more than just a football club. It actively supports the local community and has spent lockdown making life easier to bear for local people.
While the club has done some sterling work in the local community, the future remains uncertain. If social distancing restrictions are still in place when next season starts, it will hit the club’s finances.
At least the club has the advantage of being based in Stevenage, a community-focussed town where individuals and businesses look out for each other.
Alex Tunbridge, Chief Executive Officer of Stevenage FC, says: “Since the outbreak of COVID-19 we have had to cease all of our football activities. As we couldn’t just sit at home and do nothing, we have launched an over-70s coronavirus community careline which has been providing a variety of services to elderly people in isolation. Since mid-March we have delivered more than 6,500 free sandwiches to local residents, overseen the logistics of more than 50 food bank collections and deliveries,
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Alex says: “Our biggest challenge will be social distancing. We face the prospect of the 2020-21 season being played behind closed doors with no paying customers coming through our turnstiles. This will have a significant impact on our business. In addition, we are likely to be limited to lower coach-to-player ratios at our academy and community coaching sessions, meaning we are likely to receive a significant reduction in the number of
Alex says: “The geography and transport links which connect Stevenage to the capital and surrounding major towns and cities is certainly an advantage for attracting some aspects of our business. However, the main benefit is the community of Stevenage itself. The people and local businesses who make up the community are fantastic supporters of the club, not only in terms of the football side of the business, but also in relation to the work we do within the local community.
AREA FOCUS - STEVENAGE
“As an award-winning hospitality operator and running Stevenage’s biggest nightclub/ bar, there’s plenty of opportunity for everyone to experience a great time with us. As soon as we’re open again, I’d love to invite people in.” Here in Stevenage, local businesses are always willing to help and support on multiple levels and they appreciate the benefits of collaborations and partnerships.” This healthy community spirit was part of the reason why John Mason moved to Stevenage to work for The Deltic Group, which owns the Bar & Beyond nightclub in the town. John, General Manager of Bar & Beyond, explains: “I moved to Stevenage in January to work on creating a venue which could be used by all adults – somewhere that provides tasty street-food styled tapas for an afterwork snack, sharer with friends or as a meal. With such a plethora of large business in the immediate area, it seemed sensible to cater for the after-work crowds and give them deals which they could know and love, such as 50% off all drinks from 5pm until 10pm all of the nights which we are open. It is also excellent that we attract students from a number of educational facilities and apprentices from big businesses. Our student night is one of the biggest in the region! Basically, there are a lot of people who don’t really want the hassle of the huge commute to and from London when they have a stylish, London-esque vibe on their doorstep!” As chairman of the Stevenage Pubwatch, John has been watching how the industry and the government have responded to the crisis. Some venues have diversified and are providing take-away options. Others are seeking to put in place social distancing measures before reopening. “Some venues, I’m afraid, will never reopen again,” John says. “As a business, we closed straight away because nightclubs are a very social place. Our head office will be the guiding factor on when we open, what we do and how the venue will be used. We will try to do what is right and what is best for everyone. There has to be a delicate balance of public safety and also giving people a social way of life.” Other than the impact of the coronavirus, what challenges will John’s business and Stevenage businesses in general face going forward? “There has been a knock-on effect for us in terms of promotional activities and getting involved in the community,” he says. “Also not being able to attend networking events or meetings has an effect on people knowing who I am, what I do and also realising that Bar & Beyond isn’t somewhere you should be put off from visiting. As an award-winning hospitality operator that runs Stevenage’s biggest nightclub/bar, there’s plenty of opportunity for everyone to experience a great time with us. As soon as we’re open again, I’d love to invite people in.”
Charities, too, are suffering from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Stevenage Rotary Club has lost thousands of pounds of fundraising income. although this hasn’t stopped the organisation from delivering vital services to the local community. The club has established Stevenage Rotary Community Corps to offer non-rotarians, rotarians, families and friends of all ages, abilities and professions an outlet to meet and chat with each other online. Eventually, the intention is to plan fun social events for the future once lockdown restrictions have been eased. Gerry Strohm, President of Stevenage Rotary Club, says: “We will join forces with others, bringing together the people of Stevenage to combat social isolation, working on meaningful projects and having fun. “We’ll soon be working with partners from the National Citizen Service to mentor young people and provide them with valuable community projects. We’re also working with young children’s groups to deliver online youth competitions.” The rotary club is doing everything it can to adapt to the current situation and mitigate the effects of COVID-19 so it can remain as resilient as possible. “We “Zoomed” even before it was in vogue”, says Gerry. “We’ve stayed connected, made membership easier and reduced costs to members by having fewer and better meals and social events. Our members have helped provide thousands of meals to vulnerable people and key workers. We have helped one of
our Members; Oli Khan of Surma TakeAway, to deliver thousands of hot meals. We’ve made and distributed face masks and those clever bands with buttons, which make them more comfortable. We’ve also supplied food donations and created official COVID-19 information videos with subtitles for ease of accessibility.” The rotary club has served the local community for many years, laying on all sorts of activities and fundraising events. Gerry believes that the town’s eclectic culture and excellent transport links make it the ideal location for charities and businesses. She says: “There are the obvious advantages of rail and road links to the capital and beyond, with the professions, businesses and residents that this attracts. That’s important for keeping our town vibrant and innovative. Most importantly, Stevenage is a melting pot of different communities and cultures, with a richness of community spirit coursing through its ground-breaking network of cycleways.” That community spirit will be vital as Stevenage begins to recover from the coronavirus pandemic. With its diverse array of organisations, excellent connectivity and a healthy mix of cultures, the town seems well placed to survive and prosper. For more information visit www.barandbeyond.co.uk, https://www.stevenagefc.com/ and https://stevenagerotary.org.uk/
“Our members have helped provide thousands of meals to vulnerable people and key workers. We’ve made and distributed face masks and those clever bands with buttons, which make them more comfortable. ” Gerry Strohm, president of Stevenage Rotary Club INSPIRE
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Regeneration during a global pandemic You don’t need me to tell you that things are very different to how they were just a few months ago, and that it may take some time for life to return to a ‘new normal’. However, while the world is going through a major transition, our 20-year regeneration programme has stayed resilient and we have continued to make good progress during the pandemic. For many, it’s fair to say that in the midst of tackling a pandemic, regeneration may not have been top of the agenda; however the transformation of the town centre and the surrounding areas can undoubtedly be a highly powerful tool and can help us to support the economic recovery in the town. The Town Square and North Block programmes are both on schedule and will introduce a range of new facilities including flexible working and conference space into the heart of our town, along with new public realm features like lighting, seating and planting that are designed to improve the entire look and feel of the area. In addition, the £50m Queensway North scheme, that also includes the addition of new commercial space – along with a fresh retail, food and beverage and residential offer – is also progressing well. Our respective partners, Mace and Reef, and their contractors ASHE and Henry Construction, have been on site throughout the pandemic (while adhering to new social distancing and safety guidelines) meaning that they are on track to complete the first stages of their programmes later this year, which will provide a huge benefit for our town at a challenging time across the country. If anything, our focus on introducing a range of ‘mixed-use’ facilities (including retail, residential and commercial offers in the same central spaces) puts us in a strong position to keep
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improving our town centre. It’s no secret that the retail market was struggling nationally before the outbreak, and it’s likely to suffer further in the coming months as footfall has dropped and will continue to remain lower. Town Centres and High Streets are still adapting to the way in which the retail market has shifted, with people ordering more of their goods online and that’s reflected in the falling demand from both shoppers and retailers for physical space. Instead, there is a huge need for a wider combination of centrally based services including residential facilities, gyms, commercial space, cultural attractions, places for people to learn new skills and more. Whilst Covid-19 has introduced new challenges around social distancing, it has also increased the pace of change away from physical retail and towards diversifying town centres, something which is at the heart of our regeneration. The pandemic has strengthened that need even further. Organisations are realising that their staff can work effectively from home or at least away from big, centralised offices and are already seeking conference and flexible working space in town centres to make this happen. However, at the same time there is a major shortage of these facilities as much of the older stock of office space was converted to residential accommodation in recent years under permitted development. This perfect storm has led to a significant demand for the types of facilities that we’re building into our major development programmes and we will continue to promote jobs and commercial opportunities as a key component of the town’s transformation.
A similar effect can be seen in the residential property market, where many people are realising they no longer want to live in major hubs like London, and are keen to explore opportunities in locations like Stevenage, where the combination of better value for money, excellent transport connections, and leisure opportunities on the doorstep can help people achieve a new work-life. The demand for the types of properties that Mace are proposing as part of its £350m SG1 programme – in addition to the 550 homes being delivered by the council - is likely to increase in the coming months as its central location and design means it is in tune with local services and is easy to navigate by public transport or bicycle. The regeneration programme is already transforming Stevenage to the benefit of both its current and future residents, and despite the challenges now facing us, we are well positioned to use the regeneration to support our town’s economic recovery. The fact we have been able to retain such a resilient position over the past few months is in no small part down to the strength of partnerships with both private-sector developers and our public-sector partners. If you are looking to find out more about what we have planned for our town then please head to www.Stevenage-Even-Better.com for all the latest news or follow us on Instagram and Twitter (@StevenageBetter on both) Councillor Sharon Taylor, OBE Leader – Stevenage Borough Council
Stevenage provides an attractive location to businesses with strategic access to London, Cambridge, north and south and mainland Europe. With ambitious plans for future growth, Stevenage offers a ‘highly entrepreneurial and innovative business environment’, with cutting edge technologies at the forefront of a number high tech knowledge companies already located in the area. Whether you’re a start-up business or looking to grow and expand, Stevenage Borough Council provides you with a single point of contact to access the following business support services available from the council and its partners: •
Access to Funding
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Support with finding suitable premises
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Links to education, training institutions and organisations to discuss your specific needs, including taking on apprentices
• Supply chain development
For further information please contact economic.development@stevenage.gov.uk or visit the website www.investinstevenage.co.uk
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Support with promotion of achievements and successes
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Access to enterprise and innovation services and a network of innovation centres
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Access to business consultants and advisors; providing support for business planning, sales and marketing, exporting, mentoring and other helpful resources
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Planning and Regulatory advice and support with your growth plans
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Aftercare support
Protecting businesses during unexpected crises The COVID-19 crisis has rapidly changed business operations, encouraging them to shift to a remote, digital working model. During the past decade, organisations have been implementing new technology capabilities into their IT landscape to transform their current operating model to a more digitally enabled operating model. The current atmosphere of uncertainty calls for faster more efficient implementation of such capabilities. Alongside operations and finances, organisations have to rapidly rethink their customer lifecycle engagement model. To minimise risks, several organisations have taken measures to safeguard their employees and have executed a Business Continuity Plan (BCP) to protect their services. We have outlined some of the key steps that organisations need to take to 1) weather the risk unexpected economic volatility poses to operations 2) develop operational and financial resilience to build sustainable business models.
Operational Resilience:
Financial Resilience:
5. Review communication strategy, such that employees, customers, stakeholders and shareholders are kept regularly informed.
1. Businesses need to assess their short-tomidterm financial stability, monitoring cash-flow and margins. 2. Review current supplier partnership contracts. Engage with suppliers early in the process to develop a commercial model that is mutually beneficial. 3. Review Capex and Opex models. Avoid hasty decision to minimise short-tomidterm Opex forecasts. Use operating model lenses to assess how existing resources can be exploited. 4. Following business reviews, invest in innovative ideas or existing backlog transformation initiatives that can accelerate the implementation of new operating model.
1. Assess whether the current operating model is fit for purpose or needs redefining. 2. Business capability maturity assessment should establish whether current capabilities are adequate or if new capabilities need to be developed/ procured to deliver the strategic objectives. 3. Product and services value propositions need to consider whether businesses can continue to retain and attract customers as per their growth plan. 4. Protect assets from external threats (e.g. cyberattack, scam emails, etc) by collaborating with IT service providers. Ensure the ability to recover services and data from last known position.
In collaboration with our clients, working to transform business foundations to achieve a more resilient model that delivers measurable outcomes! Contact : e: Shan.Pretheshan@supa-itconsulting.co.uk t: 07956073264 www.supaitconsulting.co.uk
It’s so much more than a recruitment! John McGillivray - Director
In the May-June edition of Inspire, you might have read about Ben, a golfing mate of mine who was having some staff retention issues. Ben asked me to help him replace his highly qualified, highly paid R&D manager with someone who could take his business to the next level.
in place), I spent time with his management team trying to get a feel for the business, its culture and its future goals. Without this understanding, you’re likely to run into the problems that Ben had already experienced – his previous R&D manager just wasn’t compatible with the culture.
While I knew Ben pretty well from tee to green, I didn’t know much about his business. So back in February (before social distancing rules were
A couple of days later I met up with other members of the team to see what they do and how they do it, before observing the cultural dynamics and
interplay between staff in the busy tearoom at lunchtime. Ben and I also discussed the business strategy, organisation structure, marketing plan and finances, as well as roles and job descriptions – or more accurately, the lack of job descriptions! The review of the business had left me with a strong view that Ben had more issues to deal with than just finding a replacement R&D manager.
Call us now to find out how we can assist with your Talent Acquisition. Phone: 01727 229 227 • Email: team@acqui-tal.com www.linkedin.com/in/johnbmcgillivray • www.acqui-tal.com 20
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Yes, he needed an R&D manager who was energetic, gregarious, up for a challenge (and banter), prepared to multi-task and enjoy the challenge of delivering a hugely exciting business strategy in a fun, people-focused growth environment. But there were also major structural issues that Ben needed to address, especially as his expansion plans call for an influx of new skills into the business…
Unlock the Key Human Performance Indicators in your people Optima-life are thought leaders who blend expert knowledge from the worlds of sport, business and health with technology. Our clients, ranging from SMEs to multinationals, come from a variety of sectors and are often experiencing the challenge of accelerated change or growth. Regardless of their profile, a characteristic our clients have in common is a recognition that supporting their people is critical for sustained performance.
For Leaders: Coaching & Mentoring
For Teams: Workshops, Talks & Webinars
For Organisations: Our digital platform
What sort of leader do you want to be?
What sort of team do you want to be?
What sort of organisation do you want to be?
Our work will focus on your:
Our training focuses on their:
Our approach focuses on organisational:
• Energy
• Energy
• Balance
• Resilience
• Communication
• Efficiency
• Engagement
• Health & wellbeing
• Adaptability
• Cohesion
• 21st century leadership
• Culture
• Environment
• Energy • Wellbeing
If you would like to talk through how we support organisations and explore how we could help your people, do make contact via info@optima-life.com and we can arrange a time to talk.
www.optima-life.com
Volunteer Business Support Scheme
Volunteer Business Support Scheme
Celebrating creativity and thinking in today’s changing world.
Volunteer Business Support Scheme
Join our festival running virtually throughout July. herts.ac.uk/ideas
SS
Volunteer Business Support Scheme
Need help getting back to business? SS
Volunteer Business Support Scheme
Hertfordshire businesses that are struggling to cope due to the pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic can now access FREE support. The Volunteer Business Support Scheme has been designed to help start-ups and SMEs bounce back as best they can. By bringing together a network of highly experienced volunteers, your business can now access on-going support.
Your business will be expertly matched to a volunteer from the same sector or similar business background, providing targeted support and helping you to navigate your way through all the resources and support available. All have experience of managing or coaching at a strategic level, so your business needs will be in safe hands. The Volunteer Business Support Scheme has been devised by Hertfordshire Growth Hub, in partnership with the University of Hertfordshire and powered by Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership. Let’s get back to business together.
To access free support register at go.herts.ac.uk/busvols and we will be in touch
Powered by Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership
Funded by
Delivered by
CHAMBER EVENTS
Upcoming Webinars The Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce have organised a series of Webinar Events in these challenging times in order to continue supporting our members and non-members, and to provide vital information that businesses may need. With our members and benefit partners we have designed the programme to cover a variety of topics:
LinkedIn or LinkedOut? Training Webinar Are you LinkedIn or LinkedOut?
In this webinar you will learn the five things you need to be doing right now on LinkedIn to generate leads for your business. Our speaker, Sam Rathling, is the most sought after LinkedIn Expert in Europe and is on a mission to generate over £1billion in sales for her clients. As the Chief Visionary Officer & Founder of the fastest growing LinkedIn Marketing Agency in the UK, she inspires Business Owners, Sales Professionals and Entrepreneurs to generate massive results.
Date: 07/07/20 Time: 11:00 – 12:15 Price: Members £15.00 Non-Members £21.00
In the last 12 months alone, Sam and her team have helped businesses to generate in excess of £93.2m in new business from the LinkedIn platform. A best-selling Author with her book ‘Linked Inbound,’ Sam is considered an expert on inbound lead generation. Her webinar, ‘Linkedin or LinkedOut?’ will give practical tips and advice to help you become a social selling superstar!
Strategies for Success -Webinar Date: 08/07/20 Time: 10:00 – 10:45 Price: FREE The Coronavirus crisis will affect all business sectors in different ways and to varying degrees – but it’s how you respond that will set you apart from your competitors and determine whether you survive, thrive or fail. In this webinar Silvia Vitiello, Partner at Moore Kingston Smith, will bring simple no-nonsense strategies to give you the insights and tools to create a plan for business development that ensures you and your organisation have the very best chance of success in the post-
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Coronavirus world. There are threats to businesses but there are opportunities too - for those that plan to take advantage of them. Silvia’s portfolio is divided between SMEs and not-for-profit organisations. In her commercial work, often within the property and technology and professional service sectors, she is particularly interested in working with ownermanaged businesses, which she finds both challenging and enjoyable. She has been in public practice for over 30 years and continues to be passionate about her work, bringing an energy that helps find creative solutions and leaves clients happy.
CHAMBER EVENTS
For more information on any event:
01707 502180
bookings@hertschamber.com or www.hertschamber.com
Queen’s Awards Workshop Date: 14/07/20 Time: 11:00 – 12:00 Price: FREE
The Herts Chamber have put together this workshop, with another to follow in August, to assist local companies with their entries for these special awards and help to ensure Hertfordshire businesses have the best possible chance of success. We are delighted to bring these workshops to you in association with the Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership. If you are considering entering the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, and would like some help with your entry, why not come along to this free to attend event, the first of two workshops, to find out what makes a winning entry. The workshop will include: • An overview on the benefits of entering the Queen’s Awards • Advice on the process and deadlines for entry • Opportunities to check eligibility, seek guidance or ask specific questions • Hints and tips to assist with your entries
The workshop will be led by members of the team from the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise Office, Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and include a Q&A session with this team and HM Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Robert Voss CBE; Mark Bretton, Chair, Hertfordshire LEP and Chair of the LEP Network; plus Madeleine Lewis, Marketing Manager, Silent Sentinel, a Hertfordshire-based winner of a Queen’s Award this year.
Virtual Networking Opportunity Date: 15/07/20 Time: 11:00 – 12:00 Price: Members FREE Non-Members £18.00
The next Webinar Event of the series that Herts Chamber have organised, is a pure networking event in order to continue supporting our members and non-members in these challenging times. Join us on Wednesday 15th July at 11am and enjoy the powers of networking, providing the chance to meet with up to 50 different business people in an informal atmosphere, to listen and share experiences whilst working remotely.
Each participant will be given the opportunity to introduce themselves and their business. This event is free of charge for all members and a small charge of £15.00 plus VAT is applicable for non-members. N.B. Any non-member attending this meeting who subsequently signs up for Chamber membership within one week (i.e. CoB 22.07.20) will receive a full refund of the cost of attending this webinar.
INSPIRE
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CHAMBER EVENTS
Upcoming Webinars A Practical Guide to Export Documentation & Procedure - Training Webinar Date: 17/07/20 Time: 10:00 – 16:00 Price: Members £300.00 Non-Members £420.00
The Hertfordshire Chamber have moved our events online where possible in accordance with government guidelines. Therefore, this event will now be hosted virtually as a training webinar, on 17th July from 10am to 4pm. This training course is designed to provide businesses with the essential knowledge to get their exports moving. The course addresses the costs, documentation and procedures associated with exporting goods worldwide and includes up to the minute procedures and documentation associated with the UK exiting the EU. The event also includes a certificate of attendance, all written materials, plus a follow-up helpline to the lecturer.
Opportunities for trading with Australia - Webinar Date: 21/07/20
Time: 09:30 – 10:30 Price: FREE
The next in a series of Webinar Events that the Herts Chamber have organised in these challenging times in order to continue supporting our members and non-members, and to provide vital information that businesses may need. This webinar will focus on opportunities for trading with Australia and will include: • A country overview • Brexit and the Free Trade Agreement • Sector prospects • Recent case studies This webinar will be delivered by David McCredie, CEO, Australian British Chamber of Commerce
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CHAMBER EVENTS
For more information on any event:
01707 502180
bookings@hertschamber.com or www.hertschamber.com
Virtual Networking Opportunity Date: 29/07/20 Time: 11:00 – 12:00 Price: Members FREE Non-Members £18.00
The next Webinar Event of the series that Herts Chamber have organised, is a pure networking event in order to continue supporting our members and non-members in these challenging times.
N.B. Any non-member attending this meeting who subsequently signs up for Chamber membership within one week (i.e. by 05/08/20) will receive a full refund of the cost of attending this webinar.
Join us on Wednesday 29th July at 11am and enjoy the powers of networking, providing the chance to meet with up to 50 different business people in an informal atmosphere, to listen and share experiences whilst working remotely. Each participant will be given the opportunity to introduce themselves and their business. This event is free of charge for all members and a small charge of £15.00 plus VAT is applicable for non-members.
Redundancy in the COVID-19 Era - Webinar Date: 30/07/20 Time: 11:00 – 11:45 Price: FREE The repercussions of the coronavirus pandemic include a rise in unemployment and employers having to consider or make redundancies. Solicitors Richard Gvero and Miranda Mulligan, Longmores Solicitors, will explain the main employment law considerations when carrying out redundancies and the impact of coronavirus and the job retention scheme on this process. After the presentation there will be a Q&A for all delegates. We encourage everybody to ask questions, however small they may seem, on this complex and unfortunate topic. You can ask a question on the day or, submit a question in advance to enquiries@hertschamber.com
Richard Gvero, Joint Senior Partner, Head of Commercial and Head of Employment Richard specialises in employment law and regularly helps businesses and individuals with a broad spectrum of staffing issues, including company restructures and redundancy, disciplinary and grievance processes, TUPE and other employment aspects of commercial contracts and all types of employment dispute, including unfair dismissal and discrimination claims. Miranda Mulligan, Solicitor specialising in Employment law Miranda is a Solicitor specialising in Employment Law. She advises both businesses and individuals on employment law and other HR issues. Miranda advises on and prepares contracts of employment, consultancy agreements and settlement agreements.
This webinar will be useful to Managing Directors, HR Directors and anybody who owns or runs a business or is responsible for staff.
INSPIRE
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PERSONAL RECOVERY
Change is forever, but the pain doesn’t have to be In March 2020 life changed for everyone in many unexpected ways. For some the changes were positive, for example a slower pace of life – time to focus on the real wealth we have in our homes and with those we love. For others, March 2020 marked the advent of unprecedented personal and financial hardship, bringing isolation and distressing economic uncertainties. Worst of all, in the UK alone more than 40,000 lives have ended in the most horrible way. Those worst affected were left unable to breathe. Many died surrounded by masked strangers, rather than the people they loved and who loved them most. A complex journey of grief now follows for those left behind. After more than 20 years working as a senior nurse in the NHS, in 2005 my career path changed. I knew I had more to do, helping people through and beyond difficult life change – relationship breakdown, illness, disability – the list is endless. In 2019, in part due to my own experiences of loss, I moved my main focus to helping people suffering from grief.
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While my company, Changes Forever, helped people through any type of change, I recognised that losing a loved one can bring the most painful experience of all. I now have an innovative New Chapter personal recovery programme, which allows people to continue their lives healthy, healed and happy.
How we deal with any change makes the biggest difference to the outcome. It’s important to build resilience and move forward on a firm footing, rather than skipping vital stepping stones. If we fall in the water, at best we just get our feet wet, while at worst we drown.
How have YOU been affected by recent changes? How are YOU now things are changing again? Do YOU need any help? If the changes have been challenging, I recommend that you first take a step back and reflect on what needs to happen next. There are always solutions that are generally not clear when you are immersed in a difficult situation. As we return to the ‘new normal’, ask yourself too how the people closest to you would answer the three questions above. Supporting those we love and those we work closely with can be incredibly rewarding for both sides.
Julie New is available for expert comment, personal coaching and conference speaking – www.julienew.co.uk and her beautifully illustrated gift books are available here: https://bit.ly/Grief-Garden
Above all, while this period has brought inescapable changes to our lives, please remember that the pain most definitely doesn’t have to be forever. And we all need support in our lives, so please don’t be afraid to reach out.
INSPIRATIONAL LEADER
People power is tailor-made for recruitment success Louise Wynne, Red Door Recruitment
Running a recruitment company is a tough business at the best of times but even more so in a once-in-a-lifetime health pandemic. Louise Wynne set up Red Door Recruitment 13 years ago and while the company has been successful, supplying permanent, temporary and contract office staff to businesses in the local area, the impact of COVID-19 triggered a major dip in business earlier this year. However, as the economy starts to trade again, activity levels have really picked up in recent weeks. She says: “We had two months with very little work but now the cogs of industry are beginning to turn once again. Throughout the lockdown I have been in close contact with our clients and continued to remain positive, operating from our position of strength as a well-known independent agency. We realised we’d be in a good position to capitalise once the market picks up again.” This tenacity and glass-half-full outlook has enabled Louise to succeed in a recruitment career which began after she completed an English degree at the University of Leeds. After gaining experience of the industry during a 10-year stint at a large recruitment firm, she decided to set up Red Door in 2007. She cites her ability to connect with people, her desire to put in the hard yards and the solid support of a great team, as reasons why the business has flourished.
She says: “I’m a doer and like to be involved in day-to-day operations enabling close contact with the team. Because I’ve been in recruitment for so long, I’d like to think I have an intuitive understanding for supporting and developing people to further their careers.” I work on empowering people to flourish within an inclusive collaborative team, where everyone has a voice. Ongoing training is vital in our business as it is constantly evolving, addressed through one to one’s as well as group discussions. This ethos of developing people extends to the candidates for whom we arrange job interviews. We offer interview preparation and always make sure we give feedback afterwards” she says. “This is vital because it allows people to learn lessons to maximise their chances of success in the next interview.” Reading the local market is key to our success and adjusting the business to fluctuations in the economy. This is so true at the moment, supporting the team through the changes enabling us to be even stronger in the future. Building networks and connecting with people comes naturally to Louise, and she was only too happy for Red Door
to become a member of Hertfordshire Chamber this year. We have a great client base and we now want to extend our range. “I wanted to broaden our horizons,” she says. “Hertfordshire has so many fantastic businesses so it’s good to have the Chamber platform to reach out and help each other.” As a naturally upbeat, gregarious leader, Louise is unsurprisingly looking to the future with optimism, even though she acknowledges that it will take a while for companies to recover from COVID. “The UK is the fifth biggest economy in the world despite being a small island. I’m confident we can bounce back” she says. “The furlough scheme has given companies the chance to retain talent and prevent redundancies, ensuring they still have the skills to capitalise when the market improves. From our point of view, we’ll continue to match individuals to companies, turn jobs into careers and take the time to understand our clients’ needs by developing strategic partnerships. We’re passionate about our work and our only objective is to find jobseekers the perfect role and employers the perfect candidate.”
“I’m a doer and like to be involved in day-to-day operations enabling close contact with the team. Because I’ve been in recruitment for so long, I’d like to think I have an intuitive understanding for supporting and developing people to further their careers.” INSPIRE
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MEMBERS NEWS
A magnificent display of generosity
Improve Immunity to Coronavirus (COVID-19) Boris Johnson said he believes his weight was one of the major reasons that #coronavirus hit him harder than the “thinnies” in his Cabinet.
After seven days, Matt Hancock (Health Minister) had recovered, was able to leave self-isolation and announced a five-point action plan to achieve a “significant” increase in #Coronavirus testing. Although COVID-19 affects people differently for a variety of reasons, your general health (and the resilience of your immune system in particular ) is crucial to determining how your body will combat the virus. Research has found that being obese doubles the risk of needing hospital treatment for coronavirus. Being obese is known to increase the risk of many diseases, including Heart Disease, Cancer and Type 2 Diabetes. In a study of nearly 17,000 hospital patients with Covid-19 in the UK, those who were obese - with a body mass index (BMI) of more than 30 - had a 33% greater risk of dying than those who were not obese. So, unlike Mr.Hancock who recovered rapidly, Prime Minister Johnson deteriorated and ended up in ICU, his notoriously poor lifestyle is likely why his immune system could not being fight the bug. We can beat Coronavirus by looking after our bodies. Key to our immunity of COVID-19 is the microbiome – the bugs in our gut which do so much for us, including manufacturing our vitamins as well as helping control our weight and blood sugar and reducing our diabetes risk. Aim for lots of colours and lots of variety in every meal. A rich and varied diet will support a diverse and varied, and therefore resilient, microbiome. Avoid sugars, carbs and processed foods which are a lethal combination. The ProLongevity programme is to here to help and support you to “Live Healthy for Longer”. That has never been more relevant than now. If you are interested in knowing more and reducing your own risk of contracting Coronavirus, join our Wellness with ProLongevity Facebook group that gives you access to: educational videos, the latest news and articles related to your health, advice from our Founder and NHS professional Graham Phillips and VIP access to events and online conferences. https://www.facebook.com/ groups/278916313071738/
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If you asked people to describe 2020 so far in just two words, ‘unprecedented’ and ‘extraordinary’ would be up at the top of the list. But they are also words we could use to describe the response we received to our #HereForEachOther appeal. The East and North Hertfordshire Hospitals’ Charity launched the urgent appeal back in March, as the country went into lockdown, to support the physical and emotional wellbeing of our NHS colleagues tackling the COVID-19 outbreak. We were simply overwhelmed by the response. In just a few short weeks, we’d raised more than £300,000, with a further £200,000+ worth of gifts received. Dozens upon dozens of businesses and organisations large and small came to us with various amounts of funds raised, goods to donate or services to offer. When you consider the coronavirus crisis has left many with uncertain futures, this is a magnificent display of generosity and we are truly grateful.
We literally don’t have the space here to list every donation received, but you can see the roll of honour on our website at www.enhhcharity.org.uk/ coronavirus-appeal-business-support Your kindness allowed us to make a huge difference to the lives of both staff and patients, from distributing groceries and care packages from a pop-up tent in the grounds of the Lister Hospital to purchasing mobile phones and tablets allowing families to keep in touch with their loved ones. Of course, the pandemic is but one of our fundraising priorities. We support our NHS heroes and patients all year round, with a variety of appeals helping fund a wide variety of projects supporting patients from the very young to the old. Whatever appeal you’re interested in we’d love your support, so we invite Chamber of Commerce members to consider making us their charity partner.
You can see all the different ways you can get involved at www.enhhcharity.org.uk/corporate-partnerships or if you’d like to talk in more detail email Head of Charity Beth McNeil on bethany.mcneil@nhs.net or call 01438 285182.
New brand which supports core values of organisation The Coronavirus pandemic has meant many different things to many organisations but for Intuity Communications, it has enabled us to spend some time thinking about our brand and how we will come out of this, bigger and better than we were before. We have deliberated a change of company name for some time but struggled to decide on a name that could replace Support UK. When Support UK was established in 2005, or business was all about providing support to end users with Avaya telephone systems. Throughout our journey we have evolved and diversified and as such, we wanted a brand that would reflect our ever-evolving industry and our future vison.
In May, we secured Intuity Communications and since then, have been working hard behind the scenes to launch our new identity. We have always prided ourselves on our core values – honesty, integrity and customer centricity: values that are still imperative as we move forward as Intuity Communications. We still pride ourselves on being trusted technology partners for business communication solutions and services and are honoured to provide our customers with the latest technology that not only increases productivity and reduces operation overheads but can raise a company’s overall reputation. Whether you are looking for traditional voice services, ways to improve workforce agility
and collaboration through unified communication, contact centre solutions that will elevate your customer experience, cyber security or just looking to reduce your call costs, Intuity Communications may just be the partner you have been looking for. We would love to have an informal conversation with you. Get in touch with us, to see whether our expertise could help you to elevate your business to new heights. www.intuitycomms.com info@intuitycomms.com
MID HERTS GOLF CLUB Have you had your Wedding Reception or Party cancelled due to COVID-19? Are you unable to rebook for 2020/2021? We can help you create memories Whatever the occasion celebrate in style with us
For Societies who have missed out on their golf days in 2020 Why not book your day at Mid Herts
A classic heathland course with no hills and no temporary greens! Society packages can be tailored to suit your requirements Every golfer receives a chocolate bar & bottle of water A new fleet of buggies available to hire at ÂŁ20 a round For further details please contact Joy Pickard, General Manager Mid Herts Golf Club Lower Gustard Wood, Lamer Lane Wheathampstead, Herts. AL4 8RS Telephone: 01582 832242 (Option 5) Email: gm@midhertsgolfclub.co.uk
www.midhertsgolfclub.co.uk
LETTER FROM THE QUEEN
HM The Queen praises Chambers’ contribution to business communities during Coronavirus as more firms reopen Her Majesty The Queen has offered support to businesses as they reopen, and praised the contribution Chambers of Commerce across the UK and around the world are making to help firms, champion trade and rebuild communities, in a letter released today. The letter from Her Majesty, Patron of the British Chambers of Commerce, comes as businesses across the UK are reopening and adjusting to a new normal. The letter reads: “At a time of great difficulty for many, it is heart-warming to see the civic response and generosity
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of so many businesses, small and large, to the challenges posed, whether supporting the health sector or vulnerable communities.” Her Majesty also recognised the contribution Chambers of Commerce and their members have made during the pandemic: “As Patron of the British Chambers of Commerce,
it gives me great pride to see the contribution you and your members are making to help firms, champion trade and rebuild communities.” Welcoming the letter, BCC President, Baroness Ruby McGregor-Smith said: “The Queen’s personal message of support will
be a huge morale boost to our business communities at this complex and sensitive time. “We are grateful that Her Majesty has recognised the crucial role Chambers of Commerce play supporting businesses and communities through the pandemic, and as we restart, rebuild and renew the economy.”
QUEEN’S AWARD
The Virtual Queen’s Awards for Enterprise Launch On Tuesday 19th May, The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise 2021 were launched virtually to 60 participants; hosted by the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, in association with the Hertfordshire LEP.
Robert Voss CBE CStJ HM Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire
This launch was designed to promote the importance of these awards and encourage businesses within Hertfordshire to submit entries. The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are highly prestigious awards for outstanding achievement by UK businesses, in recognition of:
The event was led by HM Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Robert Voss CBE, who said: “It was great pleasure to be able to promote the Queens Awards for Enterprise to a large captive audience of Hertfordshire Chamber members. I am so proud of the increasing success of Hertfordshire companies in these – the most prestigious – business awards. It was also great to hear from four recent winners who told us all of the huge and many benefits that winning the award had brought their companies. I must thank the Herts Chamber of Commerce for hosting the event and I hope that the Queens Awards Launch will encourage many member companies to self-nominate and to ensure that Hertfordshire remains not only The County of Opportunity but also The County of Business and Entrepreneurship.”
•
Innovation
•
International Trade
•
Sustainable Development
We also heard from Mark Bretton, Chair, Hertfordshire LEP and Chair of the LEP Network, who spoke about the vital work LEPs do to boost business-led growth across the UK and our roadmap to recovery for the county.
•
Promoting Opportunity through Social Mobility
Mark said: “It was a privilege for Hertfordshire LEP to be the
main sponsor for the launch of the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise earlier this week. As Chair of Hertfordshire LEP and the national LEP Network, I am inspired by the stories we heard from local entrepreneurs, many of them small and mediumsized businesses, and the fact that the county continues to win more than its fair share of these prestigious awards. Business has never had a more important role than it does now in helping local people regain the confidence to return to work, rebuild a thriving economy and create long-term hope for our communities. Hertfordshire is blessed with over 63,000 businesses and I am confident that together they will play their part in helping the UK grow our way safely out of the current crisis. My congratulations and best wishes go out to all past winners and future applicants of the Queen’s Awards, and to the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce for putting on such an excellent virtual event.”
To view these videos, and/or watch the whole launch event, you can find the links on the Chamber website: www.hertschamber.com/thequeens-awards-for-enterprise
Other Hertfordshire-based previous winners of these significant awards: Artemida Pharma; Lintbells; Opro and Willmott Dixon, also had the chance to introduce themselves, and share a video
The launch event will be followed up by virtual workshops designed to assist interested companies with their entries. The first workshop is on 14th July and is detailed in Events pages of this magazine.
Mark Bretton, Chair, Hertfordshire LEP and Chair of the LEP Network about their company, explaining what winning a Queen’s Award has meant for them. These videos were created with Herts Chamber Patron, Pearldrop Video Production.
“Business has never had a more important role than it does now in helping local people regain the confidence to return to work, rebuild a thriving economy and create long-term hope for our communities.” For further information on the Queen’s Awards including how to enter, you can visit: https://www.gov.uk/queens-awards-for-enterprise or https://lord-lieutenant-herts.org.uk INSPIRE
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Navigating through uncertainty
ECONOMY
Many businesses have been impacted by COVID-19. When lockdown was announced, organisations implemented measures to safeguard their employees and customers. This has led to businesses shifting their ways of working to a remote model and have seen changes in customers’ shopping and interaction behaviours. As new plans are unveiled by the government, for many businesses employees’ health & safety are at the forefront of planning activities. During these uncertain times, with not being able to predict what the future will look like, businesses need to adapt and prepare for the future by reviewing and assessing their current capabilities and Business & Operating Models, with respect to resilience and sustainability. We have outlined the key steps that organisations need to take to 1) weather the risk unexpected economic volatility poses to operations 2) develop an operational and financially resilient Operating Model. The core elements outlined below need to be at the centre of planning activities undertaken by the business leaders.
Strategy: • Use the existing strategy as an anchor point to review and update the direction of travel • Assess your market positioning in relation to your competitors and the customer segments you serve • Review and define your short- & long-term strategic objectives (Financial & Operational)
Business Model: • Assess your current Business Model. Pivot or innovate to meet customers’ changing needs • Assess your current Products & Services value proposition to meet future customer needs • Assess whether channels and on-going customer relationship capabilities can continue to deliver consistent experience to your customers
Operating Model: • Assess and transform the core capabilities to be resilient and sustainable • Transform customer experiences and omni-channel journeys • Track operational and financial performance metrics • Manage employees’ health & safety aspects and communications • Prioritise and invest on digital transformation initiatives, develop continuous improvement culture
SUPA-IT Consulting will be happy to help and support your business with the planning activities. email:shan.pretheshan@supa-itconsulting.co.uk
www.supaitconsulting.co.uk
Enhanced Business Support - When and How You Need it Since April 2018, Hertfordshire Growth Hub has supported over 5000 businesses in the county with their wide range of business support services and have a customer satisfaction rating of 100%.
To meet the changing needs of businesses in a digital world, they are constantly adapting the delivery of their services. So, this year, their sixth year, the Growth Hub have unveiled their new branding and digital support system. Enter the new self-serve website. Enabling you to access the most relevant and effective tools, resources and support when and how you need, it puts you in the driving seat of your own journey to sustainable success. The website enhances the Growth Hub’s previous service offering, providing the capacity to open their doors
even wider to help more businesses across the county. The website has been designed to reinforce the Growth Hub’s role as the entry point to business support in Hertfordshire. It allows them to host, in one place, a wealth of local, regional and national as well as public and private sector support for businesses. The website has an online marketplace that brings together a network of business support providers, giving businesses direct access to one-to-one support from advisers, mentors and coaches. Businesses can explore funded support opportunities via listings in the Marketplace and can submit their own briefs outlining the support they require from professional business services. They can also register to attend
exclusive Hertfordshire-based events delivered by the Growth Hub and partner organisations. Once registered, you’ll be directed to their easy-to-complete diagnostic questionnaire. Completing this allows the website to identify what stage your business is at and what challenges it faces; highlighting your specific needs and directing you to the most appropriate support. The website’s Knowledge Bank offers a collection of up-todate articles, templates and guides sorted by business stage and topic, providing the resources you need in an accessible format. The recent COVID-19 outbreak in the UK has only served to prove the worth of this enhanced service. These uncertain times continue to demonstrate that there is a need for a balance between adviser support
and digital services to ensure that businesses can access support when and how they need it. Hertfordshire Growth Hub is Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership’s flagship business support provider. Powered by Hertfordshire LEP, it is delivered by a consortium of partners, led by business support specialists Exemplas, with the University of Hertfordshire and Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce. The service provides a central point of access for businesses in the county to access support and guidance to enable them to grow, scale and innovate, strengthening the Hertfordshire economy. Grow your business with hertsgrowthhub.com
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TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
Rothamsted Manor
in Harpenden re-launches as sustainable events venue • Harpenden’s hidden gem, the stunning Grade 1 listed Rothamsted Manor has re-opened, with in-house catering and a sustainable brand
Steeped in history, with acres of gardens and set amongst beautiful Hertfordshire countryside, Rothamsted Manor is located on the historically significant Rothamsted Estate, home to some of the world’s oldest and most important agricultural research experiments.
• The Manor is the perfect Hertfordshire wedding and events venue with sustainability, history and tailored customer service at its heart
With a wealth of period features and beautiful facilities across several rooms, the Manor is the perfect venue for weddings, events and dinners. It has even featured as a filming location in several TV, music and film productions, more recently including ITV’s Endeavour and Mother Father Son.
• As a licensed venue, Rothamsted Manor is the perfect place for civil ceremonies, wedding receptions, corporate dinners, afternoon teas, awards ceremonies and much more
Another little-known fact about the Manor is that during WWII it was requisitioned for use by the military and became a listening post, recording and feeding messages to Bletchley Park for decoding.
For details email rothamsted.manor@rothamstedenterprises.com
A venue fit for royalty The historic Grade-1 listed mansion house at Luton Hoo has played host to royalty and dignitaries throughout the centuries. Painstakingly restored to its former glory, this wonderful property now stands proud as one of the counties flagship five-star hotels. The grounds are just as magnificent as the mansion itself. Boasting over 1,000 acres of parklands designed by the celebrated Capability Brown, the estate comprises of formal gardens, woodland trails, all-weather and Victorian lawn tennis courts plus an 18-hole, par 73 golf course. The 144 opulent bedrooms and suites are divided between the mansion house, former Adam’s coach house, Flower Garden and Parkland wings. All beautifully furnished with individual charm and character. Exquisite fine dining is offered in the Wernher Restaurant. This former state dining room is the perfect setting in which to enjoy award
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Nicole Sadd, CEO at Rothamsted Manor said: “It is such a pleasure to see Rothamsted Manor open again. The buildings and grounds have played a huge part in Rothamsted’s agricultural research heritage. The estate is rich in history too. It’s a real hidden gem. We are very focused on our approach to sustainability at Rothamsted and this can be seen with our offering at Rothamsted Manor.” “The Manor has been completely rebranded, our chefs have developed a new suite of delicious, sustainable menus, and we’ve created a new package that is transparent and caters for a variety of events and budgets. All our catering will now be done onsite by our inhouse kitchen team. We’re really delighted to be re-opening and very much look forward to providing sustainable, client-focused events at the Manor for years to come.”
winning cuisine, with rich furnishings and tapestries setting the mood. For less formal dining the Adam’s Brasserie is a short walk from the mansion house with its walls lined with stills from films which have been shot on location at Luton Hoo. At the foot of the estate on the banks of the River Lea, Warren Weir is the perfect venue for large events where privacy and exclusivity is key. This self-contained venue has five function suites, the two largest of which can accommodate up to 280 delegates. Warren Weir also benefits from a further 84 air-conditioned bedrooms, its own swimming pool, snooker room, gym plus hospitality lounge and bar. Ideally situated, Luton Hoo is just 10 minutes’ drive from London Luton International Airport and has excellent links to the M1 and M25.
Georgian leisure venue gets ready to reopen on 4th July
TOURISM
The coronavirus crisis has hit leisure and hospitality firms more than most but Manor of Groves Hotel, Golf and Country Club is doing its level best to adapt to these unprecedented circumstances. The hotel advised it had introduced stringent measures pre-lockdown and we’re continuing to enhance these in the run-up to reopening. It is working with its hygiene product supplier, Diversey, across all areas of our business and the professional disinfectants which are being used are certified according to European Standard EN14476. It is also following procedures given to them by Diversey, a global leader in cleaning and hygiene solutions.
Although the luxury venue, which is set in 150 acres of idyllic Hertfordshire countryside, had to temporarily shut its doors to everyone except key workers, plans are being made to reopen in July subject to the lifting of government restrictions.
“This makes us confident that we can welcome customers in a secure space in line with recommendations stipulated by the World Health Organisation and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.” Once it has reopened, the 80-bedroom Manor of Groves will have a lot to offer. The original Manor House has three separate rooms for meetings, weddings, private celebrations and events, while the purpose built Manor Suite is able to
accommodate larger events and weddings. Both the Manor Suite and The Colonnade Room, which oozes Georgian elegance, are set in stunning, picturesque gardens with additional outside space. This beautifully restored Georgian Manor House is a really good draw for businesses. It’s within easy reach of major motorways and airports and offers free on-site parking for 200 cars. The hotel is confident it will be able to run events once lockdown restrictions are lifted in line with government requirements for social distancing. It is reviewing its food and beverage packages and offerings and will look to have these available as soon as it can reopen. On the reopening Manor of Groves will be following all guidelines and restrictions in accordance with UK Government announcement.
FinanceEast
Unlocking funding for Hertfordshire SME’s. Finance East is The FSE Group’s regional funding organisation for the East of England.
• Hertfordshire Business Expansion Grant Scheme
Since establishment in 2009, Finance East has been operating at the heart of the SME community, serving businesses who are unable to source funding from conventional or even alternative funding channels, to help them to realise their growth ambitions. This challenge has never fallen into greater focus than in these current exceptional times.
• Hertfordshire LEP SME Growth Loan Scheme
To date, throughout the 6 counties of the East of England, it has supported over 200 companies, amounting to over £25m worth of loans through the Regional Growth Loan Scheme, funded by HM Government via the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. Gordon Brock of Finance East, is Hertfordshire’s dedicated Fund Manager. If your business has been unable to obtain all or part of the financial support through the traditional methods, the two schemes available to Hertfordshire SME’s may be able to support your growth:
The Expansion Grant Scheme provides grants between £10k - £100K for capital projects and focuses on established businesses, which can demonstrate the capacity to grow through job creation in the area. These are for SME’s with up to 250 employees/50m Euro turnover. Start-ups do not qualify and sector and purpose exclusions apply. The Growth Loan Scheme is for limited companies only and provides debt funding between £50k - £500k. The loan can be used for general business expansion activities or where there is a specific working capital or trade finance requirement. Repayable up to 5 years and the interest and charges apply are reflective of risk.
For more information on these schemes, or to make an appointment please contact: Gordon Brock Fund Manager, Growth Loan Scheme 07818 088021 gordon.brock@thefsegroup.com Hayley Johnson Expansion Grant Scheme Manager 07717 805780 hayley.johnson@thefsegroup.com or visit www.financeeast.co.uk
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THANK YOU FROM HERTFORDSHIRE
Thank you from Hertfordshire “The support Freelove Group has received as nonmembers from Briege and the Herts Chamber of Commerce during the coronavirus pandemic has been invaluable and hugely appreciated. Working together with other business support agencies across Hertfordshire such as the Herts LEP, Herts Growth Hub, Visit Herts, Stevenage
Briege introduced us to Carly Fitzpatrick from Portfolio Group who were having similar struggles to us. In the darkest of times it was reassuring to speak to someone who completely understood our situation and to share information with them.” Sarah Hewitt, Freelove Group
“As members (and Patrons for nearly 10 years) the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce has helped Pearldrop to grow our business through providing opportunities to meet and connect with other businesses we may not have otherwise met. The Chamber Team has frequently made invaluable introductions to other members and Patrons who have gone on to become clients and partners. During the recent Covid-19 lockdown period
the Chamber’s wide range of online networking opportunities and initiatives was extremely useful and kept the business community connected and business moving. We’re proud to be Patrons and couldn’t thank the Chamber enough for the support they continue to provide us.”
“Pharmaron has been delighted by the
“The scale of the impact of the COVID-19
collaboration with Hertfordshire Chamber
pandemic has called for collective local
of Commerce and they have facilitated us
leadership to provide clear strategic direction to
playing a part in helping with COVID-19
support our businesses during this global crisis
crisis. Introductions allowed us to focus
and lead Hertfordshire’s post COVID-19 recovery.
donations of PPE and more importantly to manufacture hand sanitiser for the the NHS. As a result we were able to manufacture, for the cost of materials used, 1,000 of WHO hand sanitiser that was supplied for use by local doctors and other NHS facilities. The PPE was really helpful to a local Funeral Director. Pharmaron was delighted to play a small part in helping and this was greatly facilitated by the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce.”
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Borough Council and Stephen McPartland MP raised the profile of our desperate plight and helped to secure funding to ensure the survival of our event hire business.
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Denise Austin, Pearldrop Video Production
Throughout this crisis, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, alongside our representative and partner organisations such as Visit Herts and Hertfordshire Growth Hub, has worked tirelessly to keep the county open for business. Hertfordshire LEP would like to thank the Chamber and its team for its ongoing support and commitment to our business community. Together we can ensure Hertfordshire is best placed to recover and build back better.”
“Redmond Group Ltd would like to thank the Herts Chamber of Commerce, for the superb support they have afforded our business since we became members. In a relatively short period of time since we joined, our Chamber Liaison Manager Donna Schultz has assisted us greatly with important and relevant introductions to businesses that are in turn helping us with our strategic planning for scale up over the short, medium, and long term. Donna, along with the Chamber CEO Briege Leahy, has also introduced us to high level representatives of potential client partners, as well as supply chain partners that match our value-based approach to a sustainable and profitable business. The Chamber has guided us in finding the most appropriate Leadership Training for our Senior Leadership Team; and this will not only help our team in driving our vision and strategy for the future, but also clearly demonstrates
our investment in that team, and motivates and empowers them in being part of our vision. Importantly, the Chamber has also given us great information and guidance on UK markets, as well as the disruptors caused by Covid-19 and how we might navigate them. It has also helped us access funding that is available to us in these challenging times. If you are a business owner in Hertfordshire and would like support for your business, I strongly recommend this Chamber; I know they are always there to help my business and nothing is too much. We would like to congratulate the Herts Chamber for the great success it has achieved over the past year, which is undoubtedly down to the new, energetic and engaging leadership.”
‘I would like to let members know of the great assistance received from Briege and the Chamber when trying to obtain the Small Business Grant from East Herts District Council. The knowledge gained from their expertise is invaluable’.
“I can’t thank the Herts Chamber enough, if it wasn’t for the team, Briege, the Growth Hub and all the other local support I would have given up ages ago - it was you guys who have kept me going and for that I will be forever grateful. It has also been great to connect with Sarah Hewitt from Freelove, having someone else to talk with who has been going through something similar has being strangely comforting. Just seeing how the business community has come together has been fantastic and reconfirmed what a great community we have in Hertfordshire.
I’m sure the battle isn’t over yet but we are on our way to recovery and that is something last month I didn’t think was possible. I hope you are well and no doubt busy as ever. A massive massive thank you to yourself and the Chamber and I can’t wait to be more involved with the chamber moving forward.” Carly Fitzpatrick, MD
THANK YOU FROM HERTFORDSHIRE
“Our Hertfordshire Chamber has worked relentlessly during this pandemic to help all businesses navigate difficult and unchartered waters by: keeping in touch; disseminating vital business information; organising online training and networking; helping us find funding; listening to our problems and much more - all with patience and a smile. For JPA in particular, the Herts Chamber helped us rally support to re-vitalise the rest area for doctors and nurses at Lister Hospital during the height of the pandemic. The aim was to transform it into a badly needed retreat where Doctors and Nurses could take a break between shifts. We wanted to enlist the support of other local companies to make a bigger immediate impact, so we contacted the Chamber who immediately agreed to include an ‘SOS’ in the weekly update. The response was widespread across a variety of organisations all wanting to help and show their appreciation, including: Ian and Brian at Selby Contract Flooring; Sue at Amra Skincare; Michael at London Luton Airport; Alysoun at Rhubarb Seating; Katrina at Garrards of Stevenage; Katrina at Emmaus; Paul at Mainrock; Mark at ATG Spectrum; and Mike at Pledge Seating. A fantastic example of community collaboration and teamwork. These last few months have shown us that collaboration is more important than ever for future success and we look forward to growing more meaningful relationships across Hertfordshire – thank you Herts Chamber for your support, we’ve really needed it and welcomed it.” Fiona Edwards, JPA Workspaces
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LOCAL PERKS. CITY FEELS. Over the coming months, we know that keeping it local will become more important than ever. HatTech business centre will be ready to support your business so that you can work safely. The centre, close to Hatfield station and junction 4 of the A1(M), is specifically designed to suit the needs and wallets of small businesses, entrepreneurs and individual workers. With its spacious working area, HatTech can enable you to work in a safe environment and observe social distancing. High-end work stations and storage deliver a professional, creative environment for individual working while HatTech’s range of cost-effective business units are ideal for start-ups who have outgrown the home office.
HatTech also has a large meeting room for hire as well as two well-equipped refreshment areas and a business lounge. Its outdoor well-being garden is ideal for those needing a digital detox during their day.
and extensive inside space, HatTech provides a modern, professional, safe working environment for Hertfordshire’s entrepreneurs, on their doorstep.” A £751k Local Growth Fund grant from Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has helped make HatTech a specially designed hub for businesses to connect and grow.
Our flexible membership scheme will offer daily, weekly and monthly options and no ongoing membership fee, giving you the freedom to adapt as your business requirements change. Welwyn Hatfield Borough Councillor Duncan Bell, Executive Member for Resources, said: “It’s now more important than ever to support businesses in the borough and with its convenient location
LOCAL PERKS. CITY FEELS.
If you are looking for a modern, professional and safe environment for you and your business in the future, think local – think HatTech. Plan tomorrow’s move today by calling 01707 623 623 or emailing enquiries@hattech.org.uk
OPENING SOON Expansive co-working areas Large meeting room Cost-effective office units Business lounge External wellbeing garden
A MODERN, PROFESSIONAL, SAFE ENVIRONMENT.
HatTech’s flexible co-working membership gives you the freedom to adapt as your business requirements change as do the ‘easy in – easy out’ terms on our versatile office units.
RIGHT ON YOUR DOORSTEP.
Supporting you to work safely.
CONTACT US TODAY: 01707 623 623 | enquiries@hattech.org.uk 40
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MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
DID YOU KNOW, AS A CHAMBER MEMBER YOU ARE ENTITLED TO A VARIETY OF BENEFITS & DISCOUNTS?
The service and support we receive from the Herts Chamber is second to none and has been for the 20+ years we have been a member Otodynamics Ltd
Running a business can be challenging so we take away the worry by providing you with expert help and advice at low-cost or no-cost.
The Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce has partnered with a number of companies in order to offer members access to a wide variety of cost saving benefits, all included as part of the membership cost. From huge discounts on business breakdown cover to free, unlimited access to five business advice lines and over 750 free business documents. As a Chamber member you are entitled to a number of benefits including E-learning from E-careers, discount on travel insurance, discounted event tickets, a dedicated account manager, the chance for inclusion in our newsletter or Inspire Magazine, receive our Members Directory and much more!
To find out more, visit our website: www.hertschamber.com/business-benefits Or you can email enquiries@hertschamber.com
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UPDATE ON FURLOUGH SCHEME
Workforce Planning following changes to the Furlough Scheme
Charlotte Rose
The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (the Scheme) will remain in place until the end of October with changes from 1 July 2020 requiring increasing employer contributions. Businesses currently taking advantage of the Scheme need to consider whether pre-crisis structures and employment costs will be sustainable from July, and ultimately, once the Scheme ends. Where it appears that redundancies may be necessary, it is important that employers comply with employment law in order to avoid liability for claims arising. Employees with two years’ continuous service or more have the right not to be unfairly dismissed. In order to avoid successful claims for unfair dismissal, an employer needs to ensure there is a potentially fair reason for the dismissal and that they follow a fair procedure. Redundancy is a potentially fair reason for dismissal. Businesses will need to consider whether there is a genuine redundancy situation, taking into account the statutory definition of redundancy. For example, is there a reduced requirement for work of a particular kind? In relation to a fair procedure, there are a number of factors to consider. When Should You Commence Consultation with Employees? Consultation should be genuine and therefore should take place before a redundancy is a fait accompli. Redundancy should be a last resort
and early engagement with employees (or their representatives where appropriate) is best practice. Employers should discuss potential difficulties the organisation faces in the short, medium and longer term and work with employees/employee representatives to identify viable options for mitigating those difficulties. Do Collective Consultation Obligations Apply? If there is a possibility that 20 or more redundancies will be required at one location within a period of 90 days, collective consultation will be necessary. Employers will need to take into account the implications of having to comply with the statutory obligations, namely: • minimum timeframes for consultation (30 or 45 days depending on the numbers involved) • a requirement to inform the Secretary of State • informing and consulting employee representatives How Do You Ensure a Fair Process and Selection? Collective consultation obligations, if relevant, are additional to individual consultation requirements. Employers must ensure effective consultation with individuals, which may require special
Redundancy is a potentially fair reason for dismissal. Businesses will need to consider whether there is a genuine redundancy situation, taking into account the statutory definition of redundancy.
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arrangements to be put in place (eg video conferencing). Employers should take steps to agree how consultation will take place and ensure that employees can still invoke their right to be accompanied. Selection criteria must be fair and objective. Employers also need to be mindful of the risks of other claims - including the risk of claims for automatic unfair dismissal and disability discrimination. Employers must not select staff for redundancy because they have raised health and safety concerns. Pregnant employees and those on statutory maternity leave benefit from enhanced protection in a redundancy situation. Best Practice In view of the upcoming changes, effective planning may entail developing an appropriate strategy before the end of June. Employers should therefore start considering structures going forwards and the practicalities of how any consultation will now take place. Employers should ensure that a full and fair consultation procedure takes place, including compliance with statutory collective consultation obligations where relevant, and that this is documented. If, following review, there are no proposals to make redundancies, it is sensible to also document this fact.
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Commercial Leases: the impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19), Part 2 In my previous column I highlighted the impact of the current pandemic on the provisions in many commercial leases relating to payment of quarterly rents – something that is still an issue for many landlords and tenants with the advent of the June quarter day. In this issue I focus on the impact the pandemic is having on the occupational requirements of some commercial tenants. Quite apart from the economic effect the pandemic is having on businesses in general, huge numbers of people are now working from home, and at least some element of remote working is likely to be a feature for many businesses in the future – even after social distancing rules have eased. Big corporates are actively considering their office requirements and reducing their office space going forward, having seen how successfully their workforce has adapted to working from home.
However, a lease is a commitment to rent defined premises for a fixed term. What are the options when a tenant no longer needs all of the space it has committed to? We can help with the following (whether acting for a landlord or a tenant): • Negotiating a new lease of smaller premises and assisting with the legal aspects of the relocation of the business • Advising on the terms of a contractual break right in the lease (if applicable), dealing with service of the break notice and advising on the obligations to be complied with on or before the end of term • Documenting the early surrender of the lease (if agreement is reached with the landlord) and, if the surrender is of only part of the premises demised by the lease, agreeing the consequential variations required to the terms of the lease If you are looking for legal advice, we can help.
Problem Solved
• Find out more about our customers’ success stories on our website
103-105 High Street, Watford, WD17 2DQ Tel 01923 586270 email: info@plmcentral.co.uk
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5 George Street, Watford, Herts WD18 0SQ INSPIRE
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EasyBuild Mobile Application a true winner with clients! The widespread use of mobile technology – Wi-Fi connected laptops, tablets and smart phones – provides everyone on-site with a familiar and powerful connection to distributed technologies and information. EasyBuild Mobile allows built operatives to use their smart phone remotely to record essential information and upload it back to Head Office immediately. During the Covid-19 lockdown EasyBuild has
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seen a significant uptake in clients looking to mobilise their workforce and on-site processes ready for the return back to work. EasyBuild Mobile allows collaboration in real time with your team, you can record time; manage your tasks and clients all from your mobile device. It enables field based data capture for Timesheet, Goods Received and Requisitions. This avoids duplication and speeds up the transmission of key project information to Head Office.
Enhancing the software’s capabilities further, users can configure their own data collection needs with customisable reports. This is further supported with the EasyBuild Dashboard which provides high level executive analytics and analysis of a project’s progress. We are proud to say we achieve our quality standards through collaboration of our team members working together, listening to our clients’ needs and delivering upon those needs when we say we will deliver.
Requisitions Fully integrated in to EasyBuild financials, EasyBuild Requisition app enables site staff to create purchase requisitions from their mobile device for both material and plant items while on the go. The app is loaded with the preconfigured EasyBuild database, making selection of materials and plant items effortless. Once the user has selected their materials or plant items, they are able to submit their requisition electronically, instantly registering in EasyBuild’s financials against the selected project, ready for approval. All approved requisitions enable the buying team to create purchase orders with key suppliers. Once completed the mobile user receives automatic notification that the requisition has been authorised and the order number is sent back for reference. Material/Plant costs are then instantly visible on the relevant project. Once the materials or plant items have been delivered, site staff can then switch to EasyBuild GRN app to register delivery, completing order and receipt process seamlessly.
Goods Received Notes We have further enhanced the powerful capabilities of our suite of mobile applications with the addition of our GRN App – for the mobile processing of both Goods Received and Goods Return notes, set to vastly improve our customer’s Purchase to Pay procedures, by speeding up processing times, enabling accurate on-site delivery and return information and eliminating lost paper GRNs.
Calculating the true costs on a job is a challenge for construction companies of all sizes. Inability to track true material delivery on site is one of the leading factors and biggest drains on resource. Being able to record GRNs against their originating Purchase Order as soon as goods or plant items are delivered to site greatly improves this process, saving hours of non-productive time for all project staff and ensures material costs are always up to date. EasyBuild’s GRN app not only allows for full and partial deliveries and returns to be recorded via the intuitive app, automatically updating the back-office system, but also allows the user to capture photos of both the paper delivery note and the materials received. These photos are also sent back to EasyBuild, so all project and finance staff have full visibility.
Timesheets Paper timesheets are a burden to everyone in the entire process. From field staff who often forget to complete timesheets, to Site Managers who spend hours collecting and reviewing and correcting timesheets. Project Managers & QS’s spend hours costing labour to the right project and cost codes. The Payroll teams have the laborious tasks to read incomplete and sometime illegible timesheets, to then manually enter them into back-office systems. EasyBuild’s Timesheet app saves your business time and money in more than one way. By empowering your workforce with our timesheet app, you don’t have to worry about manually inputting timesheet information into EasyBuild because the information entered on the app is fully integrated with the Projects & Payroll modules, subject to office approval.
Service & Maintenance App Our service and maintenance software solution for planned and reactive jobs, defects management and snagging. It can be offered as a stand-alone solution or as part of an integrated finance system. Whether you are a maintenance provider undertaking planned and reactive maintenance tasks, or a contractor or house builder undertaking post build defects management or snagging we have a solution for you.
Analytics Dashboards seamlessly sit over the EasyBuild data and provide a user-friendly interface that empowers users with graphical views of data held within EasyBuild. The intuitive dashboards present both graphical and list displays giving businesses the ability to see the trending of data over a defined period, allowing you to be more proactive with business decisions. Because dashboards are driven from live data and in real-time, they show an accurate and up-to-date representation of current Project, Client, Supplier, Subcontractor, and Consultant financial information. Users do not have to wait for weekly or monthly reports in order to see what is going on. They can see at any given time how the business is performing and what the trends are looking like. Dashboards are always evolving and therefore the content will continually be enriched, and being web based are accessible from any device, anywhere, anytime.
Contact our sales team to discuss your Mobile Application requirements.
EasyBuild (Construction Software) Ltd Main Office: +44 333 123 3279
A: 4 Elstree Gate|Elstree Way|Borehamwood|Herts|WD6 1JD W: www.easybuilduk.com|E: enquiries@easybuilduk.com
Groundwork East : an update on our response to Covid19
Groundwork East has been busy supporting Hertfordshire and the East of England during the lockdown. We are the community charity with the green heart and pride ourselves on being a responsive partner to all of the communities we serve. We know that isolation during the pandemic can be profoundly damaging, exacerbating problems with mental and physical health. Private outdoor spaces like gardens have taken on a new significance for people – to take exercise, remain distanced while socialising, and just to get some fresh air. For people with mobility issues it can be a challenge to keep their gardens cleared and usable.
Mr Sanderson’s* story
So, as Mr Sanderson was unable to pay for a gardening service, Herts Help referred him to the Green Aiders Covid19 service. The Green Aiders cleared the garden so that access is now available to the front of the property and the garage. Mr Sanderson can now retrieve his mobility scooter giving him his independence back. He now also feels assured that should he require medical assistance, he will be easily reached.
Before Mr Sanderson’s garden and the grass leading up to the house was extremely overgrown and he was feeling trapped in his home during the pandemic, which was impacting his mental health.
After
In response, we fundraised to increase our Green Aiders capacity– a free garden clearance service - for vulnerable members of the community. Thanks to funding from a range of partners, many residents have now benefitted from the scheme. The simple act of clearing a garden is transformational for people like those in the following examples; ensuring a safe space to go outside, easier access, and a renewed sense of pride in where they live. was imperative to her health that she should have a safe place to go outside.
Ms Jackson’s* story
The Green Aiders spend the day clearing the front and back garden as well as the patio area. This has made access to her home safer, and given her a space to enjoy the benefits of being outside. After Before Ms Jackson’s garden was so overgrown that she simply could not use it, which was having a detrimental impact to her physical and mental wellbeing during lockdown. It was also making access to her home unsafe, putting her at risk of trips and falls which could result in hospitalisation, and subsequent exposure to the virus.
The overgrowth was preventing him from accessing his garage where his mobility scooter is stored and charged. Also, if he became ill during lockdown, the grass would impede access for the emergency services to the front of his house, therefore delaying his treatment.
So, Caremark Care Services referred Ms Jackson (via Herts Help) to the Green Aiders Covid19 scheme as they felt it
Green Aiders is just one example of how Groundwork has been a responsive community partner in this time. We remain committed to supporting those in lockdown, but we also know that the easing of lockdown and a return to normal life will bring its own issues for communities. As your community partner, Groundwork can help people in your area to rebuild their lives. Together we can work to create projects that support residents to boost their physical and mental wellbeing, upskill & re-train to get back into work,
*names have been changed to protect identities.
deal with grief, break down isolation, bring together communities, and build on people’s new-found love of the environment. Together, we will help the East of England to adjust the ‘new normal’ to create resilient, resourceful, and connected communities. We rely on, and are grateful to, a huge range of partners. If we can support you, or you can support us, please get in touch with James Newell, Executive Director of Groundwork East, for a conversation.
Groundwork East has been supporting communities in Hertfordshire since 1985 and we need your help as we continue do it long into the future. We are your community charity and by donating to, or partnering with us you will be an important part of the story as things recover across the nation.
Please email James Newell, Executive Director (james.newell@groundwork.org.uk) to set up a conversation. 46
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www.groundwork.org.uk/east
t: 01707 260129
Appeal to boost morale of Hertfordshire’s NHS Heroes
BUILDING CONNECTIONS
An award-winning Hertfordshire construction software company is appealing for help in its drive to boost the morale of the ‘NHS heroes’ working at Hertfordshire Community Services NHS Trust. EasyBuild, developers of pioneering software to help address the operational needs of construction firms, is raising money to send gifts of thanks to the NHS Trust workers, committed to providing healthcare during the coronavirus pandemic. The Borehamwood-based company, a member of the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, is working with fellow Chamber members to deliver ‘thank you’ gift bags each containing items including bath bombs, candles, patterned socks for men and other luxury products to the value of £20. To help fund the products, donations of between £10 and £100 are sought. Carol Massay, Chief Executive Officer of EasyBuild said that
during a weekly Hertfordshire Chamber call, Sam Tappenden, Director of Strategy at Hertfordshire Community Services NHS Trust, highlighted their biggest challenge in the current climate is staff morale: “Staff have been moved into different roles to help with the pandemic, everyone working so hard in difficult time and morale is low”. He explained how difficult it was for the staff and their families during this difficult time. This really touched us, so we launched Project Pink Sparkle as a way to help let these NHS heroes know that everyone is supporting their hard work. “I had to do something to make a difference”, said Carol, and was chorussed by Chamber Patron, Chasebridge Wealth
Management’s Maxine Taylor who said: “I know someone who can help with jewellery?” The project was quickly formed between these two companies and with the help of the Chamber, a plan was formed for gifts bags to be created and supplied by Mary from Pink Gift Store, and Claire from Project Sparkle at Park Lane Jewellery. Then together with Maxine Taylor, of Chasebridge Wealth Management and Donna Schultz, of Hertfordshire Chamber, Carol Massay will ensure the gift bags reach the right departments. “Whilst everyone is moving back to normality, NHS staff will continue with caring for people and must not be forgotten” Mary Thomas, Pink Gift Store.
“It’s been great working with a lovely group of ladies in business for a great cause” Claire Charalambos, Park Lane Jewellery. Carol added: “This is a fantastic opportunity to support the NHS in such a great way and whilst there are other fundraising activities out there, to have something like this will instantly help to put a smile on an NHS worker’s face. To let them know that the people of Hertfordshire are behind them would be absolutely fantastic. “Our target is £3,000 but we are not quite there yet. We need your help! We’d like to say a big thank you to all those who have donated so far – this really will help to make a difference.”
Donations can be made via JustGiving
www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/pink-sparkle-boost-morale-nhs?utm_term=eQdwKRKZK.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to support the NHS in such a great way and whilst there are other fundraising activities out there, to have something like this will instantly help to put a smile on an NHS worker’s face.” INSPIRE
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NEW MEMBERS
Welcome to new members Artemida Pharma
Birketts LLP
Pharmaceutical Company.
Clear Legal Advice. Birketts is a full service, top 100 UK law firm, based in the East of England. Twitter: birkettsllp Email: lisa-gray@birketts.co.uk Website: www.birketts.co.uk Tel: 07929 199648 Address: 22 Station Road Cambridge Cambridgeshire CB1 2JD
Email: Robert.miller@artemidapharma.com Website: www.artemidapharma.com Tel:
020 3291 3032
Address: Artemida Pharma Ltd Stevenage Hertfordshire SG1 2FX uu u
Balfour Beatty Regional Construction Limited Construction, Civil Engineering Contractor and Infrastructure Specialist. Twitter: balfourbeatty Email: andrew.foyle@balfourbeatty.com Website: www.balfourbeatty.com Tel:
01753 211100
Address: The Curve, 2nd Floor 18 Upper Marlborough Road Langley Berkshire SL3 8AG uu u
NEW PATRON: Bio Products Laboratory Ltd Committed to providing a continuous supply of reliable, high quality plasma derived products worldwide, supporting both healthcare professionals and patients everyday. Email:
info@bpl.co.uk
Website: www.bplgroup.com Tel:
020 8957 2200
Address: Dagger Lane Elstree Hertfordshire WD3 3BX
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East and North Hertfordshire Hospitals Charity Local and dedicated charity East & North Herts NHS Trust. Twitter: enhhcharity Email:
bethany.mcneil@nhs.net
Website: www.enhhcharity.org.uk/ Tel:
01438 285182
Address: Lister Hospital Coreys Mill Lane Stevenage Hertfordshire SG1 4AB
Brighter Connect Professional Training. Twitter: connectbrighter Email: Info@brighterconnect.com Website: www.brighterconnect.com Tel: 020 3448 4803 Address: 1 Headland Street Newhall HARLOW Essex CM17 9RZ uu u
Claire Best Marketing Ltd Strategic Marketing Consultancy. Twitter: CbmClaire Email: claire@clairebestmarketing.com Website: www.clairebestmarketing.com Tel: 07766 785582 Address: 38 Bradway Hitchin Hertfordshire SG4 8BE uu u
Crystal Press Limited London’s Commercial and Publication Printer Email: mkempster@crystalcp.net Website: www.crystalcp.net Tel: 01992 453900 Address: Unit 14 Trident Industrial Estate Pindar Road Hoddesdon Hertfordshire EN11 0WZ
uu u
Effective Accountants Accounting and Business Advisory. uu u
EziDrops Ltd Manufacturer, Inventor of EziDrops Eye and Ear Applicators. Twitter: ezidrops Email:
bobgokani@gmail.com
Website: www.ezidrops.com Tel:
07747 602859
Address: 28 The Shires Watford Hertfordshire WD25 0JL uu u
Finance East Ltd Funding Scale up Businesses. Providing Loans and Grants to SME businesses to support growth. Email: Gordon.brock@thefsegroup.com Website: www.thefsegroup.com Tel:
07818 088021
Address: Unit 1 Basepoint Business Centre 70 - 72 The Havens Ransomes Europark Ipswich Suffolk IP3 9SJ
NEW MEMBERS
Freelove Group Ltd
Event hire company providing AV, staging and other equipment . Twitter: freelovegroup Email: sarah.hewitt@freelovegroup.com Website: www.freelovegroup.com Tel: 01438 357068 Address: Unit 2 Senate Place Whitworth Road Stevenage Hertfordshire SG1 4QS
Insight6 Customer Experience specialists, offering world class solutions with products and benchmarking processes to cover every customer touch point. Email: paul.saunders@insight6.com Website: www.insight6.com Tel: 0844 9432992 Address: 22 Harvest Lane Stevenage Hertfordshire SG2 7RD uu u
uu u
Gill Mullins Content & Copywriting Copywriting and editing.
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Harkness Screens
Cinema equipment supplier Website: www.harkness-screens.com uu u
Hertfordshire Community Services NHS Trust
To maintain and improve the health and wellbeing of the people of Hertfordshire. Twitter: HCTNHS Email: samuel.tappenden@nhs.net Website: www.hct.nhs.uk Tel: 01707 388067 Address: Howard Court 14 Tewin Road Welwyn Garden City Hertfordshire AL7 1BW uu u
HPFT Community Mental Health Services
Work with service users within a model of care to aid recovery and enables them to return to their full potential in day to day life. Twitter: HPFT_NHS Email: sarah.pashley7@nhs.net Website: www.hpft.nhs.uk/services/ community-services/adultcommunity-mental-healthservices/ Tel: 07811 476977 Address: 2nd Floor, Colne House 21 Upton Road Watford Hertfordshire WD18 0JP uu u
Informed Finance
Business Finance Consultancy. Twitter: informedfinance Email: joanne@informed-finance.co.uk Website: www.informed-finance.co.uk Tel: 07903 720119 Address: 14 Sandridge Road St Albans Hertfordshire AL1 4AS
Midlands Disinfection
IntelliQA Ltd IntelliQA helps retailers deliver better Point of Sale systems by eliminating bottlenecks from IT delivery processes using advanced technology such as robotics and AI. Twitter: IntelliQA Email: paul.kaye@intelliqa.com Website: www.intelliqa.co.uk Tel: 01707 909117 Address: 2 Falcon Gate Shire Park Welwyn Garden City Hertfordshire AL7 1TW uu u
NEW PATRON: JPA Workspaces Contract office and residential furnishers Twitter: JPAWorkspaces Email: hello@jpa-workspaces.com Website: www.jpa-workspaces.com Tel: 01727 840800 Address: Unit 4 Sphere Industrial Estate Campfield Road St Albans Hertfordshire AL1 5HT uu u
Little Active People Marketplace website, to promote healthy minds and bodies, primarily for children. Email: littleactivepeople@gmail.com Website: www.littleactivepeople.com Tel: 07957 387363 Address: 84 A Batchwood Drive St Albans Hertfordshire AL3 5SA uu u
Memery Crystal LLP Legal Services Twitter: MemeryCrystal Email: nathan.evans@memerycrystal.com Website: www.memerycrystal.com Tel: 07435 548976 Address: 165 Fleet Street London EC4A 2DY
Disinfection services and Infection control advice. Website: www.midlandsdisinfection.co.uk uu u
Modina LLP
Accounting, Bookkeeping and Payroll Twitter: ModinaUK Email: sharon@modina.co.uk Website: www.modina.co.uk Tel: 020 7183 8241 Address: 62 Wilbury Way Hitchin Hertfordshire SG6 0TP uu u
Osprey UK Associates Limited
Business & Marketing Consultancy. Email: annette.white@ospreyukassociates.co.uk Tel: 07793 726043 Address: Brittany Court 150 High Street South Dunstable Bedfordshire LU6 3HR uu u
NEW PATRON: Pharmaron UK Ltd
Contract Research Organisation providing servicing to Pharmaceutical industry focused on process chemistry, radiochemistry, metabolism & drug discovery. Website: www.pharmaron.com uu u
Red Door Recruitment
We are the leading independent recruitment agency in St Albans. We supply office support for staff to local companies, perm., temp., and contract staff. Twitter: RedDoorRecr Email: louise@reddoorrecruitment.co.uk Website: www.reddoorrecruitment.co.uk Tel: 01727 899490 Address: 16 Chequer Street St. Albans Hertfordshire AL1 3YD uu u
SUPA-IT Consulting
We act as the catalyst for business leaders and owners to achieve their growth and cost optimisation strategic objectives. Email: shan.pretheshan@supa-itconsulting.co.uk Website: www.supaitconsulting.co.uk Tel: 07956 073264 Address: HQ Innovation House 39 Mark Road Hemel Hempstead HP2 7DNÂ
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MEMBERS NEWS
Success for Essex & Herts Air Ambulance PPE appeal Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) is pleased to announce that its appeal for funds to purchase Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has been hugely successful, with the target of £50,000 exceeded in just four weeks. To date it has raised just under £60,000. EHAAT Clinical Director Stuart Elms said: “Our crews are going the extra mile at the moment to care for the most seriously sick and injured around the clock, and they really appreciate the way the people of Essex and Hertfordshire have stepped forward to support them and keep them safe during this difficult time. “The response to the appeal has been amazing. Due to the current government restrictions our communities have not been able to support us in the usual way by attending events, visiting our shops or taking part in some of our fundraising initiatives, but they have really got behind this appeal.” The money raised by the appeal will help EHAAT cover the cost of providing PPE for its critical care teams for six months. EHAAT crews are continuing to attend road traffic accidents, cardiac arrests and medical emergencies across Essex, Hertfordshire and surrounding areas. The charity is making sure they are as safe as they can be while they are working, and having appropriate PPE is a vital part of that. Visit https://youtu.be/3uoJXmAeX3c to view a video of EHAAT Critical Care Paramedic and Patient Liaison Manager Tony Stone thanking donors on behalf of the crew. For more information about ways of supporting the charity, visit ehaat.org, call 0345 2417 690 or follow the charity on social media.
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Children’s Hospice in need of local support Many things have changed due to Covid-19 but the quality of our care for children with life-limiting and terminal illnesses, and their families, remains as high. We’re finding new ways of working – so patients continue receiving the vital support needed during this challenging time. In Hertfordshire, during this unsettling time, we’re delivering end-of-life care, symptom management, and support in the family home as well as social work and pre- and post-bereavement support, virtual specialist advice and peer-to-peer support, too. “We like to meet families early on so we go on the journey with them. For some, we do the really specialist work at the end of a child’s life. By this time, we’ve built a close relationship and families know they can trust us.” Deborah, Community Matron. At Keech Hospice Care, we’re working through an agreed process around Covid-19. Firstly, we’ve successfully
kept the organisation safe, stable and responsive keeping patients, families, staff and volunteers safe has been our first priority. Technology is helping us continue our support in a safe way and we’re constantly reviewing how we’ll deliver our services in the future. At Keech, we care for the whole person – including their mental, physical and emotional wellbeing. A smile, touch or hug is often what families remember most. It’s difficult for our team to be so removed from patients and families but, every day, they’re finding new ways to provide their excellent care when it’s most needed, in the most desperate of situations.
Generous support from our community, virtual events, individual donations, grants from the government and foundations are enabling us to continue making the difference when it matters the most and, by stabilising the charity, we’re able to respond to the needs of our community. Our final stage is restoration - a phased transition into the ‘new normal’ and building future resilience. While government funding and grants have helped in the early days, it’s now we need our community to support its local children’s hospice more than ever to ensure its survival. With the help of the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, we’re looking forward to moving on together.
Football Club steps up to the challenge Stevenage Football Club has stepped up to help its local community since the Coronavirus pandemic sent the world into lockdown. The Club’s Community Careline has been serving residents for the past four months with daily sandwich deliveries, a prescription pick-up/errand running service and a friendly chat line offering
help and support to those struggling whilst in self-isolation. The Club would like to thank the local community for the support it has been shown and would like to remind residents that if they require help or know anybody that needs help, to call 01438 222222 between 10am-4pm from Monday to Friday.
FINANCE
Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce launches new Chamber Finance Finder platform, transforming members’ access to business finance 10th June 2020: An exciting new business funding matching tool looking to revolutionise access to finance for businesses in Hertfordshire is released today with the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce. The new Chamber Finance Finder will allow member businesses fast and simple access to all funding options across loans, equity and grants – simplifying, speeding up and streamlining the application process for them. Businesses are struggling to access the finance they need, so the Herts Chamber is utilising financial technology to provide access to both government and non-government funding options via a new partnership with Swoop Funding, supported by the British Chambers of Commerce.
In addition to access to funding tailored for their specific business needs, members will also enjoy other exclusive benefits such as a dedicated Chamber Finance Finder hotline providing guidance to businesses’ funding queries, plus a free financial health check, as well as finance alerts and updates.
the loans needed, it is essential that organisations such as the Chamber of Commerce addresses the challenges in the process. This new tool, powered by one of UK’s most admired fintechs, Swoop Funding, matches businesses with funding from over 1,000 providers.
Briege Leahy, CEO, Herts Chamber commented: “With cash flow a key concern for many businesses in Hertfordshire, it’s essential firms can access the support they need. By ensuring all firms have fast and simple access to finance we can safeguard the businesses that have built our community. We’re delighted to be offering the Chamber Finance Finder to make this happen”.
Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, commented “Business communities are facing unprecedented challenges, and access to finance remains a pressing issue for so many firms. The Chamber Finance Finder will help companies the length and breadth of the UK find finance options that will help them restart, rebuild and renew their operations. We’re delighted to support the Herts Chamber of Commerce in launching this initiative.”
With the latest figures from Swoop showing fewer than 50% of businesses are accessing
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MEMBERS NEWS
Broxbourne Borough Council supports Talented Athletes Despite these unprecedented times, Broxbourne Borough Council proudly marked the success of six sports men and women in the Borough with ‘Opportunity for Excellence’ awards.
The award aims to support elite athletes competing at county level or higher, with a free training package granting a year’s access to the Council’s leisure centres. Given the current situation, awardees will be able to take full advantage of their year’s membership from a date of their choice once the leisure centres in the Borough re-open. The award scheme is open to sports performers of all ages who currently reside in Broxbourne. Athletes can choose to access swimming pools, gym equipment (ages 14+) and a variety of other facilities to boost their fitness and training requirements. This year’s recipients (in alphabetical order) are 15 year
old Adam Healy, an American Footballer from Cheshunt who will be representing Team GB at the Junior European Championships in 2021 and whose team ‘The Hertfordshire Cheetahs’ won the Under 17s Conference Championship; 17 year old Ellis Miller from Hoddesdon, who represented Great Britain at senior and junior levels in both canoe and kayak slalom; Frankie Gould, a 15 year old rugby player from Cheshunt who recently joined the Saracens Rugby Club’s Academy; 78 year old John Nugent, a seasoned triathlete from Broxbourne who will be representing Team GB at the World Triathlon Finals in the USA; 20 year old canoeist and kayaker Phoebe Spicer from Hoddesdon who will be representing Team GB in the
Junior World and European Championships and 17 year old Taylor Bloor, an American Footballer from Hoddesdon who represents Team GB at U19s level. Past recipients of the scheme, who have gone on to have successful careers making them household names, include England International Netballer Georgina Fisher, 4 times Olympic Champion cyclist Laura Kenny CBE and Lucy Charles-Barclay, 3 times World Ironman Champion triathlete. Councillor Siobhan Monaghan, Cabinet Member for Housing and Community Services said: “There is a wealth of talent out there and Broxbourne Borough Council is committed to supporting our sports stars of the future through
funding access to the fantastic facilities on offer in Broxbourne. “I would urge our local athletes to apply for the same funding that supported GB track cycle star, Laura Kenny, to the finest moment of her sporting career, competing and winning multiple gold medals at the 2012 Olympic Games.” The deadline for the next round of ‘Opportunity for Excellence’ applications is 31 March 2021. For more information, or to complete an online application form, please visit www.broxbourne.gov.uk/OFE or contact Broxbourne Council’s Sport Development officer at matthew.ridley @broxbourne.gov.uk For more information please visit www.broxbourne.gov.uk
BCC calls for roadmap to economic recovery The British Chambers of Commerce has called for “swift, substantial and immediate action” to bolster the economy, as its latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) revealed that economic conditions deteriorated at an unprecedented rate in the second quarter of 2020. The QES – the UK’s largest independent survey of business sentiment and a leading indicator of UK GDP growth – illustrates the full impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the UK economy in the second quarter.
turnover will improve over the next year decreased from +34% in Q1 to –31% in Q2.
Eleven of the 14 key service sector QES indicators fell to their lowest level in the survey’s 31-year history. The percentage balance of firms reporting increased domestic and export sales is now substantially lower than the worst quarter of the 2008-09 recession.
BCC said the measures that firms need from the Chancellor’s economic statement, due later this month, include:
Meanwhile, In the manufacturing sector, nine of the 14 key indicators measuring activity in the sector dropped to their lowest level on record. The balance of manufacturing firms reporting improved domestic sales was 62 points lower than in Q1. For the export sales balance, it was 55 points lower. The balance of manufacturing firms that are confident
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Indicators for longer-term business performance dropped to record lows as BCC set out measures needed to begin UK’s economic recovery.
• Supporting jobs through substantial reductions in employer national insurance contributions • Supporting cashflow through wider business rate reliefs and extended loan and grant schemes • Supporting young people through wage subsidies for apprenticeships and work experience • Supporting investment in productivity, people and carbon reduction through major incentives
• Stimulating demand, e.g. via targeted “restart vouchers” for all UK households or a temporary VAT cut • Streamlining regulatory processes to make life easier for businesses Director general of the British Chambers of Commerce, Dr Adam Marshall, said: |“Our results demonstrate the need for swift and substantial action. The government has one chance to jump-start the economy and business confidence over the coming weeks – and they must take it. “Business communities across the UK want to see a clearer, bolder roadmap to recovery that helps them restart, rebuild and renew. The only way to re-kindle business and consumer confidence is to demonstrate an absolute and unshakeable focus on boosting the economy over the coming months.”
MEMBERS NEWS
Herts company sets staff epic lockdown charity challenge Lockdown is not stopping one Potters Bar company from limbering up and pledging to complete a mammoth 1083-mile exercise challenge for charity. Despite working from home, as advised by the Government during the COVID-19 pandemic, Chasebridge Wealth Management Ltd, has shown how united they are by announcing each team member has their own part to play in the epic challenge. Starting from June 1, staff are hoping to collectively complete the equivalent distance from Land’s End in Cornwall to John O’Groats, the far northern point of Scotland, by either running or walking. The six-week time frame they have set themselves to complete the challenge means every participant will have to embark upon completing 30 miles, or four miles more than a marathon, on a weekly basis. The money raised from the challenge will be donated to local charities, Small Acts of Kindness and Herts Young Homeless. Gordon Craft, Director of Chasebridge Wealth Management Ltd, said: “During these strange and uncertain times we wanted to find a way to unite our local team remotely, while also ensuring their wellbeing and mental health is in good shape.
“What better way to bring us all together than by introducing this huge task, which will motivate us all to get physically active and encourage us to work as one big team? The bonus here is we’ll also be raising money for two hugely important local charities, which might be overlooked amid all the fundraising for those impacted by COVID-19. “The whole team is so excited about this challenge and we’ve already started training to make sure that we hit the target within the six-week window.” Small Acts of Kindness is a charity that sources and distributes practical gifts to older people in Hertfordshire who may be struggling and are vulnerable. Herts Young Homeless provides services to support vulnerable people and works to prevent homelessness among 16-24-year olds. Chasebridge Wealth Management Ltd specialises in providing high-quality personal advice on many aspects of wealth management, helping individuals, families and business clients to determine and plan for their brighter financial futures with clarity, confidence and direction.
“During these strange and uncertain times we wanted to find a way to unite our local team remotely, while also ensuring their wellbeing and mental health is in good shape.” If you would like to sponsor us and support these great causes, you can donate at https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/chasebridgewmbigwalk
Hertfordshire Community Foundation - supporting local lives HCF is one of the largest non-statutory grants making charities in the county. We work with over 100 local families, businesses and the public sector to deliver grant making programmes to tackle need and deprivation here in Hertfordshire. From child poverty to domestic abuse, HCF supports small grass root organisations to make Hertfordshire a better county for everyone whilst working closely with donors to fulfil their giving objectives. Over the past two months HCF has awarded over 100 emergency relief grants to local charities ensuring support is provided to our county’s most vulnerable residents during the pandemic. From the lonely, isolated, and elderly to young carers, HCF has responded quickly to the needs of residents. If you or your business has ever considered doing something charitable or wishes to revisit its CSR policy please consider supporting HCF’s Covid-19 emergency relief appeal. Through our in-depth knowledge of the county we can assure you that every penny raised stays in Hertfordshire, delivering real impact. Donations can be made online or for an informal discussion please contact Helen Gray, Foundation Director at helen.gray@hertscf.org.uk
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HERTS GLOBAL
Open for business As I write this I see we are in Day 77 of the gradually easing lockdown. It’s been a long time and we have all seen a lot of changes and alterations to the way in which we are all both living and working. By John Woodruffe Export Manager
Herts Chamber of Commerce In advance of lockdown, the Chamber as a whole began preparations to enable us to carry on functioning and continuing to serve Hertfordshire companies as seamlessly as possible when, as expected, we were asked to move to home working. The Export Department had, like many, its own unique set of challenges. For example, we were used to welcoming some companies to the office and seeing them face to face, bringing their documentation to be authenticated. This of course had to stop, so ways round this had to be quickly devised. We all ended up taking home boxes of blank forms, envelopes, stamps etc. to prepare for all eventualities. I am pleased to say that many companies quickly embraced the ez cert system, whereby the various Certificates and accompanying documents can be actioned electronically. One company told me they wish they had done it ages ago as it saves so much time. There are still many documents that require ‘wet’ stamping as opposed to electronically, and these have to be catered for. Thankfully we were, and are, able to collect the post from the MacLaurin Building on a daily basis.
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It has also been helped that the British Chamber of Commerce have negotiated with several countries, e.g. Saudi Arabia, the temporary postponement of the need to wet stamp, which has relieved some pressure. We are therefore still able to turn around documents with minimum delay and post them back, when required, generally the same day. I am also pleased to say we are now able once again to accept debit/credit card payments for transactions. Overall nationwide, and not unexpectedly, the number of documents being processed in the lockdown period has fallen considerably. It is good though to see so many companies based in the county, operating in sectors that are still able to trade during this difficult period, continuing to operate. These include electronics, pharma and healthcare, chemicals,
Contact Details John Woodruffe : johnwoodruffe@hertschamber.com 01707 502196 Frances Harris : francesharris@hertschamber.com 01707 502192
food and drink, machinery, metal products and bulk paper. For the two full months we have had in lockdown, we have helped companies export over £95 million of goods to all continents. In addition, the Chamber has run many webinars giving valuable advice and assistance. The Export Department has also joined in, covering Connects the online trading platform and we have in the pipeline webinars looking at trading with specific countries starting with Nigeria (24 June), followed by Australia (21 July) and Singapore (29 July) with more planned. Check our website for more details. The Export Department is open and here for you, to give advice and help you export both now and going forward. We look forward to hearing from you. CONNECT • COLLABORATE • GROW
HERTS GLOBAL
The impact of COVID-19 on manufacturing in Hertfordshire By Nick Michaelson, CEO of Silver Fox Limited Nick Michaelson is the owner and CEO of Silver Fox Limited, a manufacturer based in Hertfordshire who develop and supply cable specialist labelling solutions to engineers around the world. Their sectors include Oil and Gas, Mass Transit, Renewables, Data and Telecom. Silver Fox have been open for business in Welwyn Garden City for 40 years and owes part of this success to the staff and support they receive from the local area. Although everyone is in a difficult patch right now, Silver Fox are looking past the current situation and laying strong foundations for the future. We spoke with Nick to understand his thoughts on the current “hidden opportunity”.
Q
Do you envisage your business being impacted by the current COVID-19 situation?
Of course, one way or another all business is impacted by COVID-19, either positively or negatively. Retail has quite clearly been hit bad. Silver Fox probably sits somewhere in the middle. We support such a wide range of industries globally – some will be up and others down. But rather than fret about whether our glass is half full or empty. We adjusted the size of our glass to match the business. We remain fully open and with more marketing activity are getting fresh inquiries from new markets.
Q
Q
Truthfully, our customers could not be better. We’re open for business and operating to nearly full capacity. If a customer comes in with an order we are able despatch in most instances – same day.
I have been through some tough times in the last 40 years. If I had to give some tips to my fellow SME owners? I’d say:
What sort of feedback are you getting from customers about the crisis?
This is all down to the team. We employ a lot of staff from the local area. Without the risk of public transport, a slightly reduced staff are able manage and service all the needs.
Q
How important do you think it is to keep manufacturing here in the UK, supporting local economies?
Essential. We have always been proud to manufacture in the UK. If the recent events should have taught us anything as a nation, it’s how important local industry is. It not only ensures jobs and wages for the population, but also increases the skills of those operating.
What advice would you give other SMEs about steering through this period?
1. Watch your cash like a hawk. A lot can change in a week. 2. Involve your staff in as many decisions as possible, they’re in this with you. 3. Focus on R&D, so when all this clears, you’ll be in an even stronger position. 4. Learn new skills – Cooking, excel, anything! 5. Ask for advice from your network and see what they’re doing. Now is the time to come together. Nick and the team will continue to work hard to provide local jobs, demonstrating the quality and value a Hertfordshire based business can add to the world stage.
“... rather than fret about whether our glass is half full or empty. We adjusted the size of our glass to match the business. We remain fully open and with more marketing activity are getting fresh inquiries from new markets.”
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HEALTH & WELLBEING
Furloughed workers drinking more alcohol in lockdown One in three (36%) furloughed workers are drinking more alcohol since lockdown began, new research has revealed. The study from independent alcohol education charity, Drinkaware, shows that a higher proportion of people on furlough are drinking more in lockdown than the UK average (24%). As the government’s furlough scheme extends to October and a number of people continue to work from home to avoid spreading the coronavirus, Drinkaware is warning that thousands of workers could emerge from lockdown with ingrained drinking habits. Of those working from home as a result of lockdown, one in four (26%) people said they were drinking more. The charity is urging employers to use the lockdown to support the health and wellbeing of staff. Drinkaware CEO, Elaine Hindal, said: “As lockdown continues, many are drinking more. Employers who have members of staff
on furlough or who are working from home should take note of our research findings. “The welcome extension to the furlough scheme will be vital for organisations as we navigate the coronavirus pandemic and it is good to see employers also offering flexible working. But this new normal must not lead to an “out of sight, out of mind” mentality, particularly when it comes to the health and wellbeing of the UK workforce. “Employers must use every opportunity to make sure their staff don’t become disconnected throughout the extended furlough period and must plan for a return to work that prioritises employee health and wellbeing. The consequence of not doing this could result in thousands of people returning to work with ingrained drinking habits that could have an impact on their health – both physical and mental. Drinking patterns, once established, are far harder to break.”
“It’s concerning that many seem to be drinking more as lockdown continues. People are experiencing significant changes to many aspects of their lives and many do not have their usual work routine. Employers should communicate with their employees about the health and wellbeing support available to them, not forgetting those currently on furlough.”
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Dr Jill Miller, senior policy advisor at the CIPD – the professional body for HR and people development – said: “It’s concerning that many seem to be drinking more as lockdown continues. People are experiencing significant changes to many aspects of their lives and many do not have their usual work routine. Employers should communicate with their employees about the health and wellbeing support available to them, not forgetting those currently on furlough.” The research, conducted by Opinium on behalf of Drinkaware, surveyed 2,001 UK adults. The study found, of those who are furloughed and drink, more than a quarter (28%) said they were drinking on days they wouldn’t usually since lockdown began. When applied to those who are working from home and drink, the proportion became slightly smaller (26%). This is compared with 22% of all UK drinkers. One in seven (15%) drinkers on furlough admitted to having their first drink earlier in the day since the start of lockdown, compared with a similar proportion of those who are working from home (14%). Among UK drinkers, 12% had their first drink earlier in the day since lockdown began. One in ten (9%) furloughed drinkers said they had had a drink in secret or covered up the fact they were having a drink since lockdown began – almost double the UK average.
2020 Online Sales Rose by 30% - Sharp-aX Users Were a Significant Part of it Where Were You? Social distancing demands Distributors, Wholesalers and Retailers alike must move to this new mode of selling now. If you don’t have a website – your competitors most certainly do. Our integrated accounting, stock control, order processing software and website system has it all. Sharp-aX is written using the latest Microsoft Technology. • We understand the importance of efficient collaborative support and recognise that when our customers have an issue – they want to talk to a person and that person stays on the call until resolved. We don’t and never will have an answer phone! We are always delighted to hear from our customers • Instantly increase your turnover / Release Cash • Raise your profile - Sell online more competitively using our integrated website. Your customers will have access to their purchase history, special pricing, invoices, statements and why not sell on eBay and Amazon too?
• On line features include: Click and Collect, Buy One Get One Free, Weight / Distance, Delivery Options, all major card payments and a one page check out • Use our Mobile Sales App: Check stock, process orders & take payments on the road • Introduce tighter stock control using our minimum / maximum re-order levels and statistics - buy only what you need. Use our mobile Warehouse App to check stock location, availability, goods in / out, adjustments. Run stock takes and receive purchase orders • Automate invoices and statements to be sent via email. Automate your credit control, set credit limits, warn your customers via text / email when approaching their credit limits • Customer information readily accessible for preferences, last ordered items with on screen images • Guaranteed return on investment within 6 months / Spread the cost over 5 years via our finance options
What Next? Call us now for a 15 minute remote demonstration and/or a friendly discussion. Full customer references and case studies available. We have no answer phone so you may call us any time – we are always delighted to hear from our customers. Look forward to hearing from you. Jean Freeman
01442 505950
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Hertfordshire’s preferred commercial recycling service provider
01707 656261 www.csrecycling.co.uk
Top tips for staying The carbon green after lockdown benefit hidden in our clothing
ENVIRONMENT TOP TIPS ENVIRONMENT TOP TIPS
Working from home has been the new normal for many over the past few months.
This is one of many areas that could extend into usual practice to reduce our footprint on the environment, and save money, once the impacts of lockdown are lifted. Read on for more:
The UKaway throws awa The UKThe throws UK throws away 2.5 billion disposab Theaway UK throws away The UK throws 2.5 billion disposable 2.5 billion disposable The UK throws away coffee cups every ye 2.5 billion disposable coffee cups every year. 2.5 billion disposable coffee cups every year 2.5 billion disposable Stop coffee cups single-use. every year. Stop single-use. coffee cups every year. Stop single-use. coffee cups every year. Stop single-use. Stop single-use. Stop single-use. r
For a business wanting to reduce Ourcarbon top tips: their footprint, textiles may seem an oddVirtually place to focus. We 1. Working generally hear about the three big areas that affect climate change – energy, transport and food. However, the textiles industry is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions. This means the clothes that we buy contributes to climate change more than air and sea travel combined.
Why is this relevant totoyour business? Encouraging employees exercise should remain priority. Whether in the office or at We mighta be familiar with greener products home, remind to inwards leave their and services – everyone but looking todesk the daily for some fresh – that lunchtime might resources used air is another angle towalk consider. seem liketo a more luxury environmentally-friendly with a looming deadline, Changing but manypractices reports show that creating headspace business will save you money and will make you more productive. provide a stronger selling proposition when If you don’t consider the cycle to work pitching youralready, goods and services to your incentive schemes e.g. https://www.gov.uk/ target audience.
There are lots of ways you can reduce your organisation’s waste.
Our top tips are:
1. For events, consider a magnetic / pin badge or lanyard rather than branded goods, as these are easier to replace if a name/ logo changes. government/news/cycle-to-work-scheme. Many business owners have been innovative Bring nature in: Consider more office plants. 2.and Buyflexible work related from ethical / helping to keepapparel their business afloat, Why become more sustainable? Research Whilstthat youonce mightconsumers need to remember water sustainable brands. The of premium communities in this time crisis. They will shows want totobe them, plants willenvironmental act as air filters,orimproving paid our often also means need support as webetter movequality, out of the crisis. associated with ethical the so they last longer and you need to quality of air and filtration in your building, which products. A recent survey conducted by 5. yourConsumer impact has a buyMake less. Ethical in turn will aid productivity. https://leafyplace. Staying at home has meant fewer car, train and AYTM found that 71% of millennials are more From harvesting the raw list count of how suppliers measure up. com/air-filtering-house-plants/ planegrowing journeysand – and an associated reduction likely to support an environmentally-friendly material, to howWe they’re made, to Collectively, we can have in air pollution. can continue to crossing use video Reuse: business. Likewise, of customers 3. Engage with86% customers in say an the world to get from factory to store, to the a large effect if we pull in calls, or telephones, for geographically distant opentoand way. that recycle, they prefer shophonest at businesses 3.the Forsame businesses, reducing direction. Swapthe clothing footprint impact of washing and how they’re conversations afterthem lockdown. But don’t restrict 74% prefer and companies that limit thebeen use of could be as simple as washing and reusing your stationary to exclusively Wellbeing mutual support have shown disposed of, each item of clothing produced this to face-to-face (or voice) engagements. pollutants and unnecessary and uniformsor after someone recycled FSC paper. has left. Did you know to be constant characteristicschemicals of the crisis and has a lifecyclecan carbon impact acrossteam the Technologies be used to enable that extending the average 67% of shoppers prefer companies Make a conscious effort lifespan of will not go away. See where you can that go the extra whole of remotely, a product’s lifeas(the ‘cradle to grave’ working such Google docs, MS by just 3 months of active useor toclothes feed the birds. Grow vegetables support energy. with you can do the mile sorenewable that those engaging impact). is to measured using teams orThis Slack access and addkilograms to live bee-friendly plants. Host your website with a would lead to a 5-10% reduction in same too. E.g. provide litter bins outside your ofdocuments. CO2 eq (or carbon dioxide equivalent), a green platform provider. your energy from carbon, waste and water Buy footprints! There is also evidence premises; add the Refillthat signmany to yourconsumers window standard unit for measuring carbon footprints. Enabling and encouraging virtual socialisation those who support green electricity generation. (They offer advice on refilling and reusing in want guidance on how their individual 4.Plant Consider hosting a clothes swapbuilding for staff or (or is also important to maintain engagement and trees, maybe as a team challenging circumstances https://refill.org.uk/ actions can help make a difference. What has been found is a shocking amount clients). It is aday. fun way thetechnology. life of clothing limit isolation. A more relaxed platform such as sustainability Optto forextend a clean refill-advice-during-coronavirus-outbreak/; Businesses are well-placed to help raise by swapping withOceans others. The person only ofa team emissions from both the What’sand Appwaste might be suitable. Offering June saw World dayaverage (8th) and World organise aawareness litter pick locally - Keep Britain Tidy consumer and understanding wears two thirds of(5th) what’s in their these and production disposal fashion an outlet to and discuss mentalstage. health Fast and anxiety Environment Day – research have updated the Greatchange British Spring Clean and, more importantly, the way they wardrobe. WasteAware youreduce your isismaking clothing more disposable, with also a valid addition to your businesses see what your businesscan canoffer do to guidance For on safe litter-picking practice. rails andThis hangers freethe to get you consume. example, did you know that cheaper prices and less durable garments, ‘new normal’. Perhaps considering a business impact. yearfor sees 10th anniversary Fashion Revolution Week is website every Hertfordshire residents Offeryear, your unsellable produce on Oliothrow or similar meant to lasttoout theorseason rather ofstarted. www.PlasticFreeJuly.org. Their subscription Calm Headspace etc.than 20-26 April 2020. Join in to make it the studies apps or donate to of a food bank. See if there is a over 7000 tonnes textiles into their rubbish offers a host of suggestions and case A happy workforce is a productive workforce. years. This accelerates carbon emissions, largest swap in history. For details contact local scrap/reuse store locally who could make bins, when they could have been reused, for businesses to reduce their consumption causes increased global warming and sees 2. Nature - Getting Out use of regular packaging materials you usually ofWasteAware@hertfordshire.gov.uk plastic and other waste items. repaired or recycled. more textile waste in landfills. through away – or talk to your supplier to see if Movement and exercise go hand in hand with employees whatwashing changes they think 5.Ask Useyour a guppy bag when this can be designed out of the system. physical and industry mental wellbeing, and many Here at WasteAware, keeping textiles should remain. prepared to have an open The fashion is now taking steps to catch microfiBe bers shed during explored what on our doorstep out theyour bin social is a campaign we seriously are actively and about where your Take responsibility and tohave move towards a is more ethical andfor free. thehonest processconversation and stop them business have a positive impact through championing. It is a three-pronged build strong stakeholder relationships. environmentally friendly supply chain entering can the watercourse. changing your business models, suppliers and approach which you can easily adopt in and production methods, but it won’t 4. business Buy local Recycle: contracts. Use this as an opportunity to show your and at home: change overnight. We need to play our employees that you value them and their Supply chains have been majorly disrupted 6.your When you are ready to part with a garment, part in changing the use and consumption • inPreventing the purchase of new clothes input and build trust across your organisation. this global pandemic. Many smaller see if you can donate it to a of clothing too. WRAP (the Waste and (reduce) have struggled to continue businesses Lockdown hasthan offered charity rather sendspace it to to think that Resources Action Programme) estimates throughout lockdown and will need support to few of ll. usFor make time ordinarily. In this landfi those thatfor can’t be that in the UK alone, we consume around • Keeping clothing in active use for longer keep going. Encouraging the growth of local and space, the opportunity make changes used again by you, lookto into 1.7m tonnes of textiles annually, and of (reuse) regional suppliers through regional economic inhttp://www.uniformreuse.co.uk/ our personal and work lives and across this more than 600,000 tonnes are sent to development and employment opportunities whole organisations has been seen. • Recycling unwearable textiles (recycle) landfill or incinerated. #RememberYourReusables: Remember, any small effortimplement? against the fast What changes will you will enrich the local ecosystem. #RememberYourReusables: fashion trends makes a positive impact on the https://www.rapidformations.co.uk/blog/how-can-your-business-reduce-its-carbon-footprint/ wasteaware.org.uk/reusables #RememberYourReusables: environment! For more see wasteaware.org.uk/reusables https://www.ecotricity.co.uk/news/news-archive/2018/the-carbon-footprint-of-getting-dressed www.wasteaware.org.uk/textiles https://www.trustedclothes.com/blog/2016/02/23/fast-fashion-and-your-carbon-footprin/ wasteaware.org.uk/reusables WasteAwarePartnership #RememberYourReusables:
e r b e m b e r emRm em e b m Rem ! e s e ! l r s e b e e l R a b s b r m u a e ! e s e s b r u e m l r m e r e b r u e e R a r o b s m u y u e ! o m e s y R e r e l r m b ! u e s a o R eusab s e y l u b ! e s r e r l u o r a y s r u u e o r yyour
Keep in touch
Sign up to our monthly e-bulletin https://www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/updateme/ WasteAwarePartnership #RememberYourReusables: wasteaware.org.uk/reusables HertsWasteAware #HertsWasteAware: #RememberYourReusables: HertsWasteAware WasteAwarePartnership wasteaware.org.uk/reusables WasteAwarePartnership @HertsWasteAware www.wasteaware.org.uk HertsWasteAware wasteaware.org.uk/reusables HertsWasteAware HertsWasteAware WasteAwarePartnership HertsWasteAware HertsWasteAware WasteAwarePartnership
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Jemma and Gill co-owners Little Active People
Little Active People is a children’s website dedicated to keeping children active both mentally and physically and away from screens.
Outdoor Explorer Nature Activities Notebook Encouraging kids and all family members to get outdoors and explore £8.95
Seekers Scavenger Hunt The perfect activity for little hands to encourage them to explore and observe the world around them £14.99
(additional car journey kit to accompany the starter board £7.97)
Rainbow Colour In Trainers Giving your child the ability to design the shoes to be as unique as they are (range of designs available) £32.99
Travel journal A fabulous companion for any trip, an activity notebook filled with 14 days worth of diary pages to write, draw and stick anything and everything from their trip creating a wonderful memento to treasure £8.95
Pipity Activity Case An all inclusive activity case for kids to take wherever they go, car, train, plane or meals out £24.99
Colour in Tablecloth A great solution to keeping the kids occupied during mealtimes so you can enjoy your meal, and it’s educational too. Other designs available £22.95
Our UPF 50+ swimwear for children age 6 months - 12 years is made using recycled fabric from plastic bottles. These bright and bold swimsuits, surf suits, rash vests and swim shorts are designed to make a splash and protect growing explorers from the sun’s harmful rays. Sunsafe Swim Shorts UPF 50+ £15.00
Sunsafe Rash vest UPF 50+ - £18.00
Placemat to go A colour in placemat that fold and fits perfectly into a little bag meaning they can take them with them wherever you go £13.95
If you have a comment, some feedback or would love to join our Marketplace, just send us an email at littleactivepeople@gmail.com or visit our website. We look forward to hearing from you!
www.littleactivepeople.com
As mums of five young children, we became increasingly aware of the impact that the change in technology was having on our children. Technology has radically changed since we were growing up and we can no longer bring our children up in the way that we were. We appreciate that children need to have an understanding and access to technology but felt that there was an opportunity to help parents to get the balance right – firstly because there is so much conflicting evidence out there and then to help the next generation growing up to be parents who grew up in a world of technology to help them understand the importance of screentime balance. With 50% of mental health problems being established by the age of 14, we believe that we are raising awareness on an important topic. We launched Little Active People in November 2018 and our marketplace website now has lots of different vendors whose ethos reflects our own - to promote healthy minds and healthy bodies primarily for children (although we have some aimed at parents too!), by helping reduce/balance the use of screentime. We sell products which promote children’s imagination and creativity both outdoors and in (including subscriptions, craft, baking, literacy and clothing) and products which help with the emotional wellbeing of both child and parent. Both areas that are being affected by too much screen time. The idea was that we could be a one stop shop for parents – for example, they can buy waterproof coats for outdoor play, a happy journal to promote mindfulness, a colour in tablecloth for screen free family time and some baking kit party bags to promote creativity/reduce plastic – all in one easy site. We were keen not just to sell products but to help educate and support parents in balancing screen time and making screen time work for their family. We do this through 1) blogs providing the current research, advice and ideas 2) our social media channels provide tips, stats and an opportunity for our followers to ask questions and 3) to our subscribers, we send emails with advice and free activity sheets. We have lots of exciting plans for this year including informative workshops for parents incorporating other local businesses, running fun events for children, selling event tickets (e.g. little welly obstacle course) and speaking at events/radio in order to help promote and raise awareness of our ethos.
SKILLS & DEVELOPMENT
5 Steps to Boost
Confidence and Business Performance
Confidence is our greatest personal resource, that’s why it is so important. When we feel certainty inside ourselves and have faith in our reasoning and abilities we can cope with any situation. Our life and decision-making flows easily, we feel happy and secure about ourselves and have an optimistic approach to adversity. Confidence protects us from stress because it gives us the ability to be calm and resourceful, so we can take courageous steps to sort things out, even in critical and demanding situations. Confidence also comes from taking care of ourselves, ensuring good sleep, nutrition, exercise and physical/mental/emotional well-being, choosing to be around supportive people and being kind to ourselves and others, not critical or judgemental. Without confidence we tend to feel uncertain, insecure and question ourselves all the time. Every situation can feel like a threat, with a tendency to over-analyse things and generate more stress. Furthermore, secret negative influences harboured in our minds can act upon us in ways that sabotage our efforts, plans and ambitions, particularly when we feel under pressure, overwhelmed or stuck. These are usually subconscious limiting beliefs that have manifested from experiences in the past. A lack of inner confidence and self-belief can affect all levels of management and workforce, from the CEO in a vast organisation to every level of worker in a business. It doesn’t have any boundaries.
We may know our job inside out and have extraordinary knowledge about product or process, but still be painfully lacking in personal confidence and therefore unable to deliver stimulating presentations, build strong relationships or develop a thriving service or business. Overcoming a lack of inner confidence is the gateway to personal fulfilment, success and happiness. Building Confidence Empowers Achievement and Resilience, so if you want to create more in your life or business, try these 5 steps: 1. Increase your competence and skills Learn more about yourself, take training opportunities to improve your skills, read more, undertake personal development, practise often and use repetition to refine your skills so that you reach a level of mastery, perhaps in public speaking, business skills, talking and listening effectively to people, managing conflict and difficult conversations. Thomas Edison took 1000 attempts to create electricity in a light bulb...!
2. Focus on being the best you can be Forget about being perfect, no one is. Focus on what’s going well for you, develop a positive mindset and approach to support yourself. Avoid comparing yourself with others, no one’s journey is the same as yours. Learn to connect, communicate and motivate more effectively. If you are in a leadership role, aim to become an inspirational role model, engaging closely with your workforce. 3. Build your Competence and Confidence over time Don’t expect immediate results, be patient, consistent and committed to your growth and development, do daily affirmations, get healthier and fitter to support your journey. Start small with situations or tasks that are new or difficult, take on bigger ones when you have gained some experience and feel more confident. 4. Take Action Be someone who is a doer if you want to make progress, don’t shy away from responsibilities
I help clients to identify personal challenges and blocks, such as self-doubt, stress, anxiety or professional insecurities and to undergo a fast and beneficial shift to achieve a powerful sense of self-belief, confidence and competence. Ultimately this crucial growth of mindset
and completion of tasks. Become more assertive if you feel your voice is not heard or you struggle to speak up. 5. Prepare and Reflect Undertake exceptional preparation in the areas that you want to demonstrate confidence and ability, e.g. a pitch for a business opportunity, a business plan, an interview presentation. Utilise specialist resources available to you. Reflect afterwards in a positive way; what did you learn from the experience, how could you make it even better next time? Richard Branson – “If someone gives you an opportunity, take it and learn in the process” Do you acknowledge and have gratitude for everything you have already achieved so far in your life and career, do you remind yourself of all the challenges you have already overcome? The future is bright if you concentrate on enjoying the present and making the very best of your opportunities right now.
accelerates ability to achieve personal and professional ambitions, generating a confident and positive leadership style that delivers higher business performance, greater opportunity in the workplace, enhanced relationship building skills and better health and wellbeing.
Lesley Taylor
Life and Confidence Coach Director of “Lesley Taylor Life & Confidence Coaching” www.lesleytaylorconfidence.com Info@lesleytaylorconfidence.com
INSPIRE INSPIRE 61 61
THE LAST WORD
The Last Word Q Who are Ocado Group? Many think of us as an online supermarket. But, while we’re known for Ocado.com, its vans, and its product range, this is only part of Ocado Group. Behind the scenes, we have our purpose-built fulfilment centres and high-speed robots, which whizz around ‘picking’ orders. And these don’t just process orders in the UK.
Q Did you know? We’re a global technology and solutions provider, pioneering in the field of online groceries and constantly innovating. We’ve been growing for 20 years, from three employees to thousands. In the UK, we jointly own Ocado.com with M&S and will offer M&S’ products on the webshop from September. Morrisons.com delivers its groceries using the same processes and technology as Ocado.com.
Q What do we do? We supply supermarkets around the world with the technology to deliver groceries and grow their online capabilities. This technology - known as the Ocado Smart Platform (OSP) - was built in-house. We’ve optimised every stage, from the customer easily placing an order to the best route for each delivery driver.
Patrons
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INSPIRE
Ocado donates van to DENS Hemel Hempstead
For us, delivering groceries in the quickest, most efficient, and sustainable way is what’s key. In addition to giving back and fostering a diverse and inclusive work culture, to help us develop an end product that serves all people the world over. We have nine global partners at present, including grocers Sobeys in Canada and Kroger in the USA, Groupe Casino in France and Coles in Australia.
Q How do we give back? We partner with many charities, all of whom fit with us as a business from education to road safety to helping everyone have enough to eat. One of our charity partners is Hertfordshirebased Foodbank, Hostel and Social Enterprise, DENS. Over the years, we’ve built a longstanding relationship with DENS that has seen us donate a cool van, food, volunteers and lots of time. Our engineers dug out an allotment at DENS’ Hostel, so it can grow its own food. We support DENS’ projects which help people who were previously homeless into work. We’ve also introduced a road safety education programme to give school children pedestrian safety training, working closely with Hertfordshire County Council. We’ve also run this across other counties in the UK.
Ocado Group and Inspire Knowing the value of giving back to local communities, we are the proud sponsor of the Inspiring Hertfordshire 2020 Community Champion Award. This celebrates an individual or organisation that has worked hard to help their local community. “We look forward to seeing who receives the Award - and is recognised for impacting people’s lives and the local community - this October,” says Suzanne Westlake, Head of Corporate Responsibility & Corporate Affairs for Ocado Group and winner of the 2019 Inspiring Hertfordshire Special Recognition Award for Outstanding Contribution to Business. Find more about us at ocadogroup.com and @OcadoGroup @LifeAtOcado on LinkedIn, Facebook at Twitter.
Personal, caring and independent. The complete funeral service 2244 hhour our sservice ervice
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www.austins.co.uk
Harwood Park
The perfect setting to commemorate the life of your loved one
Crematorium and memorial gardens created and managed by the Austin family in the beautiful Hertfordshire countryside.
www.crematorium.co.uk
Serving the local community for ten generations
Proud Headline Sponsors
Chartered Accountants and Tax Advisers
“friendly expertise�
Helping Hertfordshire businesses to grow and prosper for more than 80 years. Congratulations to all shortlisted for the Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards 2020 and good luck to everyone!
44(0)330 024 3200 hillierhopkins.co.uk
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